Follow These Steps If You’re Involved in a Los Angeles Car Accident
Los Angeles car accidents can be scary. Hopefully, you’re reading this before you’re involved in a car accident. If you’re involved in a car accident, follow these steps to help yourself and protect your potential legal claim.
Don’t Leave the Scene
Leaving the scene of a California car accident is a crime that, depending on the severity of the accident, can be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. Under California law, you must exchange information with the other involved driver before you may leave the scene. Learn more about hit and run accidents, and their consequences, here.
Call the Police
Even if you don’t believe that you or the other party has any injuries, call the police. In many cases, the police will respond and fill out an accident report. You will be given a report number so that you can obtain a copy of the report at a later date. The police report may be requested by the insurance company and could also be useful if you file a legal claim with the help of an experienced accident attorney.
Get Medical Treatment
If you have a medical emergency, such as bleeding, potential broken bones, pain, etc... do not hesitate to call 911. Otherwise, make an appointment with your primary care doctor or visit an urgent care facility. If you have no injuries, that’s great. However, there are many injuries that you may not notice until several hours after the accident. Your body produces adrenalin which can make it hard for you to feel pain. Also, failing to get medical care right away can give the other party a defense if you choose to file a legal claim.
Call a Car Accident Lawyer
As soon as you can, call a Los Angeles car accident lawyer. A lawyer can help you deal with the insurance company and the other party. You could be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, time from work, property damage, and pain and suffering. California gives car accident victims only two years to file their claim. So, call now!
For a free, no obligation consultation about your potential car accident claim, contact the skilled attorneys at Ghozland Law Firm today.