Getting hit by a car can be scary. You will be left confused, disoriented and possibly injured. If you are involved in a collision you should take the necessary safety precautions as well as carry out the required process.
However, if you have suffered serious injuries, you must first ensure that your health is taken care of. Check yourself and others for any potential injuries, and seek medical attention right away if necessary.
In this blog post, we will discuss what to do after getting hit by a car. This includes exchanging information with the other driver, what happens if you don’t exchange information after an accident, and why it’s important to always get a police report.
If You Are Hit by a Car, Do the Following
To make sure you handle this frightening situation properly, here are the steps you should take after getting hit by a car:
1. Exchange Information With the Other Driver and Passengers
If you are physically able to do so, exchange information with the driver who hit you, any passengers, and any witnesses. This includes the driver’s name, address, contact number, vehicle registration number and insurance details. It’s also best practice to take pictures or videos of the scene in case that evidence is needed later on.
Also, be sure to check on the other driver and passengers for any potential injuries. It is better to be safe than sorry.
2. What Happens if You Don’t Exchange Information After an Accident
Exchanging information matters for legal reasons too. A driver who leaves the scene without stopping and sharing information can face criminal charges under Vehicle Code 20001 or 20002. Without the other driver’s details, it is also harder to prove who is responsible for your injuries, although uninsured motorist coverage or medical payments coverage may still help after a hit-and-run.
3. Always Get a Police Report
It is always important to get a police report after an accident regardless of whether or not anyone has been injured. This way an accurate record can be made and used as evidence in court in case legal action needs to be taken down the line. The police report should include all essential details such as when and where the accident occurred, who was involved and what happened.
4. Documenting Injuries
It is essential to document all injuries sustained in the accident, as well as any medical treatments you receive for them. This includes taking photos of visible bruising and lacerations, keeping receipts for over-the-counter medications you purchase at the pharmacy and visiting specialists such as orthopedic doctors or physical therapists if your doctor recommends doing so.
Visiting a hospital after an accident also ensures that there is appropriate documentation of your injuries which can be used later on in a lawsuit.
When to Involve a Lawyer
If your injuries are severe, you may want to consider getting in touch with a personal injury lawyer, who can evaluate the accident and advise you on your rights and options. Don’t try to negotiate a settlement solely by yourself, because you could end up accepting far less than you are entitled to for medical bills, property damage and other expenses.
The Deadline to File a Lawsuit
It is important to know the statute of limitations before you act. In California, you typically have two years from the date of an accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in court. If a government vehicle or public road was involved, you must first file a government claim within six months. Acting quickly protects your right to seek compensation for medical bills, property damage and other expenses.
Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand all aspects of the lawsuit process, as well as help you make informed decisions as you pursue fair compensation. It is important to act quickly and take all necessary steps to protect your rights.
Work With a Personal Injury Lawyer in California & Pursue Fair Compensation
Although it can be intimidating, filing a personal injury lawsuit is often the best way to ensure that justice is served and that those at fault are held accountable for their actions after getting hit by a car. With the help of an experienced attorney and a thorough understanding of California’s laws, you can make sure that your case is handled properly and that you receive all rightful compensation.
At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we understand the complexities of personal injury law and are here to help you get through this tough time. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you pursue fair compensation.
Need advice on a personal injury case in California? Call us today to find out how we can help you seek justice and fair compensation.