No one expects to be in a car accident. If you experience one, though, it is important to know how to respond. What you do following a vehicle collision can determine many factors, including the injury compensation you might receive. A lawyer in Owings Mills can help you reconcile the aftermath of a car accident, but it is up to you to react responsibly in the moments ensuing a collision.
Let Emotions Interfere
Many people consider car accidents upsetting events. Not only can they cause extensive damage to one of your most valuable possessions, but they can also lead to serious injuries to you and your loved ones. However, when a vehicle collision occurs, it is critical that you control your emotions. Whether your natural response is fear or anger, these feelings can interfere with your ability to record information about your accident. Confrontations with the other driver can likewise prove dangerous and disadvantageous should you and your attorney decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
Admit to Fault
In everyday situations, people often apologize for minor indiscretions such as taking the last bagel at work or forgetting to take out the trash before leaving home. This instinct to apologize can have serious ramifications if you admit to fault at the scene of a car accident. You are not obligated to discuss any aspect of the collision with the other driver. You need only collect his contact and insurance information. Once the local authorities arrive, you can then provide them a description of the events that took place.
Drive Away from the Collision
A lawyer may also caution you to stay at the scene of the accident until the authorities give you permission to leave or an emergency care crew determines that you require medical attention. Driving away from a vehicle collision can severely affect your ability to collect personal injury compensation. If you fail to stay long enough for the authorities to arrive, you may even be accused of a hit and run offense. To protect your interests, remain at the scene of the accident until you have taken down all necessary information and have given a complete statement to the authorities.