For drivers in Orange County, even seemingly minor car accidents can be a huge hassle. Cases where damage is minimal can still incur exorbitant repair costs, and might even entail some degree of physical injury. Here at Callahan & Blaine, our Newport Beach car accident attorneys know that car accidents are stressful no matter the circumstances. That’s why we recommend the following tips to help drivers mitigate the negative effects of a car accident.
U.S. News & World Report lists a few important steps to take when involved in a collision. The first step is to clear all vehicles from the path of traffic to prevent further collisions from occurring. When possible, vehicles should be moved to the side of the road with hazard lights turned on to alert other drivers. It’s also a good idea to call the police even if no serious injuries or damage has occurred.
Calling the police is recommended so that a report can be created that details the scene of the accident. Without a police report it can be difficult to fight off meritless insurance claims if the other driver disputes liability for any damage caused. A police report offers an objective record of events, which can be extremely useful when there are disputes between insurance companies.
Accordingly, drivers should also exchange contact information at the scene, including the name and phone number of their respective insurance carriers. Any witnesses at the scene should also be asked for their contact information, as they might need to be consulted at a later date. Additionally, photographic evidence is helpful for proving liability or illustrating road hazards that contributed to the accident. If you’ve been injured because of another person’s negligence, please visit us online to learn more about the legal options available to you.