Protect yourself down the road following a car wreck

Right after you have been involved in a collision caused by another driver, your emotions run high, and panic may start to set in. Naturally, your biggest concern is seeking medical help for any potential injuries. You may also be preoccupied with the damage done to your car.

It is normal for drivers in such a situation to feel dazed and confused about what steps to take next. However, taking the wrong steps following a car wreck in California can negatively affect the value of your personal injury lawsuit.

First things first

Following a motor vehicle accident, staying at the accident scene is the very first thing that is critical to do, as leaving the scene -- particularly if someone has been injured -- could cause you to face some major criminal penalties as a hit-and-run motorist. Checking on other passengers and drivers is also important in order to make sure that anybody requiring medical attention is able to get it. Then, you can contact the police so that they can file a police report about the wreck.

What next?

After contacting police, you can focus on exchanging information with the other driver who caused your accident due to speeding or another type of negligent behavior. This information ranges from the person's name and address to his or her driver's license number and license plate number. The other driver's insurance information is also critical to collect.

When talking to the other driver, it is necessary that you remain cooperative and cordial without apologizing for anything that took place at the crash scene. For instance, if you tell the other driver that you are sorry for missing a traffic signal, then you just might be admitting that you are legally liable for any injuries stemming from the accident.

Final steps

If possible, it can be beneficial to take photographs of the collision scene. You can also feel free to speak with witnesses and gather their personal contact information as well. Then, you must tell your insurance company about the crash as well as seek medical attention and track all treatments required in light of your injuries.

It is best to contact an attorney in California right away so that you can make sure that all important evidence is preserved. Your attorney will fight for you to get all of the compensation to which you are entitled following your car wreck.