Driving in California can be challenging, especially for those visiting from rural areas where the widest roads are two-lane highways. There are freeways in this state with more than 14 lanes. Car accidents are more likely on busy roads. If you’re involved in a collision, it’s important to know what to do and, also, what not to do.
Seeking medical attention is a top priority after a car accident. If you suffer moderate to severe injuries, you might need assistance from one or more people you trust to take care of certain things for you while receiving transportation to a hospital for care. In addition to making sure certain tasks get accomplished, you’ll want to make sure those acting on your behalf or you (if you’re able to act on your own behalf) avoid certain situations, as well.
Avoid confrontations with other drivers
Perhaps someone ran a red light and hit your vehicle or swerved out of one lane, straight into yours. Maybe another driver was speeding and failed to stop at a stop sign or cut you off by making an unsafe lane change. These types of car accidents are preventable and may be the effect of driver negligence.
It’s understandable that you might feel frustrated or angry when someone’s careless or reckless behavior causes you or your passengers to suffer injury. However, no matter how much you want to confront a driver who has just caused a collision, it’s best to avoid confrontation at the scene of a car accident. If you act aggressively in any way, you can wind up in a heap of legal trouble. The only conversation you should have is to exchange insurance information. Other than that, the only people you should be talking to are police officers or rescue workers.
Avoid acknowledging culpability
Another thing you don’t want to do following a California car accident is to admit guilt. Even if you believe that you were partially (or fully) responsible for the collision, it’s best to keep your beliefs to yourself. There may come a time when you must answer questions under oath if someone files a legal claim. Aside from the investigation, it’s better to avoid self-incrimination.
Don’t share personal information with other drivers or passengers
Following a collision, police investigators will arrive at the scene. You must give them your personal contact information. It is not necessary for you to share this information with people from the other vehicle or vehicles. In fact, it’s best not to share private information with others at the scene of an accident.
Don’t forget to photograph the accident site
If your injuries impede your ability to walk around, you can ask someone you trust to take photos of the accident scene. Such pictures should include photos of wrecked vehicles, street signs or other landmarks nearby, as well as any nearby property damage that may have occurred.
California car accidents often lead to litigation. It’s important to know where to seek guidance and support if this happens to you.