When you’ve been rear-ended, it’s an understatement to say it’s a stressful time. You’re likely feeling a lot of anger towards the driver who hit you. You may be in serious pain and facing injuries that can be life-changing.
As hard as it may be, it’s important to keep a clear head and take the right steps in this difficult time. Learn what to do after getting rear-ended in Pueblo, Colorado, and how a Pueblo car accident lawyer can help you fight for any compensation you’re owed for your losses.
Stay Calm
Staying calm may be the toughest thing to do when your mind is racing, you’re in pain, and you’re not sure what happened. Still, it’s vital that you keep your wits about you. Take a deep breath if you can, and try to remain calm. This will help you to avoid making critical mistakes that can cost you later on.
Get Clear of Danger
If the cars are still drivable, they should be moved off the road. If not, anyone who is safe to move should get clear of danger and out of the street. If anyone is injured and cannot safely move, it’s a good idea to position reflectors or flares, if you have them, to warn other drivers of the danger.
Call for Help
Next, call 911 to get the police and other first responders on the scene. This allows you to ensure that everyone who needs medical attention, including you, is seen by a professional. It also allows a police report to be filed, which can be essential to your claim later on.
Exchange Information
Exchange information with the other driver, including contact and insurance information. If they refuse to share this information, you can obtain it from the police report. You can also take down their license plate number.
Document the Scene
Document the accident and any injuries in as much detail as possible. Take photos of the accident scene and surrounding area or draw diagrams if you can. Talk to any witnesses, and see if they will give you their contact information and are willing to provide statements.
Don’t Apologize
One mistake that many people make is apologizing at the scene, even when the accident wasn’t their fault. Never apologize for anything at all. Try not to even utter the words, “I’m sorry.” They can come back to haunt you when the time comes to pursue any money you’re owed.
Call Your Insurance Company
Even if the accident wasn’t your fault, it’s a good idea to report what happened to your own insurance company. When you do so, stick to the facts of what happened. Don’t exaggerate or go into detail about your side of the story. Just tell them factually what happened. Answer their questions truthfully, but don’t elaborate. Also, it’s important to keep in mind that the other driver’s insurance company may try to contact you. Remember that you aren’t obligated to speak with them and it’s in your best interest to direct them to your attorney.
Call a Pueblo Car Accident Lawyer
Your next step should be to speak with a Pueblo car accident lawyer at Heuser & Heuser, LLP. Knowing how to handle the legal side of a rear-end accident that wasn’t your fault can be tricky. Our team has helped many people just like you navigate the legal process and get the money they’re rightfully entitled to for their medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.
All you have to do is give us a call today at 719-520-9909 or fill out our online form for a free consultation and we’ll take it from there. It’s just that easy!
