Actions to Protect Your Safety and Your Legal Claim
We will do our best to help you regardless of what happened at the scene of your motor vehicle accident, but there are many do’s and don’ts that apply to protecting your right to compensation. Here are a number of important guidelines that apply after any motor vehicle accident:
Stop immediately. Stay calm and do what you can within reason to avoid blocking traffic.
Check to see if anyone is injured. Administer first aid if you’re qualified and it is appropriate. Don’t move any person who is injured.
Call the police and cooperate fully with the officer. Only give information necessary to explain what happened. Never admit guilt or fault.
Take pictures of accident.
If an insurance adjuster shows up at the scene, don’t give any statements and don’t sign anything except a police report.
If possible get the names, addresses and phone numbers of witnesses. Make a mental note of what witnesses say, like, “That black car was flying.”
Visit your doctor as soon as you can after the accident.
Inform your insurance company of the accident, but do not give any insurance adjuster, regardless of the company involved, any statement as to what happened or what your injuries are until you have contacted our office.
San Francisco Motor Vehicle Accident Procedure FAQs
What information should I collect at the scene of a motor vehicle accident?
If it’s safe to do so, gather the other driver’s contact and insurance information, take photos of the vehicles and accident scene, collect witness contact information, and obtain a copy of the police report if one is filed. Keeping detailed records can be helpful if you decide to pursue a claim.
Should I seek medical attention even if I don’t feel injured right away?
Yes. Some injuries may not produce symptoms immediately after a collision. A medical evaluation can identify hidden injuries, ensure you receive appropriate treatment, and create documentation that may be important if you file a personal injury claim.
When should I contact a motor vehicle accident lawyer in San Francisco?
It’s often beneficial to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident, especially if you’ve suffered injuries or there are questions about liability. Choulos, Choulos & Wyle represents individuals in San Francisco and can explain your legal options while helping preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Get Our Proven Legal Team Involved
Perhaps most importantly, before signing any statements other than a police report, consult a legal professional who focuses on personal injury and motor vehicle accidents. At Choulos Choulos & Wyle, we will know what to do and we will put protection of your interests first.
