What Should I Do After Being Involved in a Car Accident in Colorado?

 Posted on January 14,2020 in Car Accident

Although there is no single correct way to react to trauma, being prepared for a car accident can make a tough situation better. Even for safe drivers, it is a smart idea to learn how to respond if you are ever involved in a vehicle collision. Drivers can make their own decisions on the road, but unfortunately, they cannot control the driving habits of others. Knowing the proper steps to take after an auto accident can not only prevent further incidents but can benefit drivers and passengers if they decide to file a personal injury suit. In certain situations, the accident may have been caused by another motorist’s negligent actions. 

Steps to Take After a Crash

Preliminary results from the Colorado Department of Transportation show that fatal accidents have decreased between 2017 and 2019. This was after a steady climb in accidents starting in 2011, reaching a high of 600 fatal crashes in 2017, which was the highest since 2002. Luckily, not all car accidents are fatal, but people can still be seriously injured in car accidents that are caused by drinking and driving (DUI), distracted driving, and reckless driving. 

Imagine getting into an accident on Colorado State Highway 14. What are the next steps?

• Call 911: Even if the accident is minor, it is always a good idea to call for emergency assistance. If anyone is injured, they will be able to get the immediate medical treatment they need, and police will be dispatched to assess the accident. A police report will be filed, and the drivers involved and any witnesses can make statements. This will create an official account of what happened, which can be beneficial in a personal injury case. If law enforcement is not dispatched, a report can be made in person at a police station. 

• Get to safety: If the car is still functional, pull over to the shoulder or other safe location. If others in the car are seriously injured, it is best to wait and have emergency services remove them from the vehicle unless they are in immediate danger. If your car is in direct traffic and cannot be moved, you should turn on your hazard lights or find another way to alert oncoming traffic. 

• Collect information: One of the most common pieces of advice when dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is to collect as much information from the other driver as possible. The other driver’s name, phone number, and insurance company are all important details, but there are other things to gather as well. If any witnesses of the accident are present, collect their contact information. Statements from these witnesses could be used to help demonstrate fault for the accident. If possible, take pictures of the damage to both vehicles, as well as any injuries. 

Contact a Fort Collins Personal Injury Lawyer

Being in a car accident can be scary, and you may wonder what to do immediately following a collision. By taking the correct steps after a car crash, you can protect your ability to hold the driver who was at fault responsible for the damages you have suffered. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle collision, the experienced Larimer County car accident attorneys at Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. can assist you in receiving the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 970-225-2190 to schedule your free consultation. 

Sources:

https://www.codot.gov/library/traffic/safety-crash-data/fatal-crash-data-city-county

https://www.allstate.com/tr/car-insurance/in-case-of-a-car-accident.aspx