7 Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Car accidents happen quickly and unexpectedly, which is why it is a good idea to prepare yourself beforehand–so that when an accident does happen, you know what to do. The professionals at Taylor and Blair know that the chaos surrounding a car accident can make managing the situation difficult. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to lower the stress of the unanticipated event and protect your rights.

1. Remain at the Scene: Leaving the scene of a car accident without sharing your driver information can lead to criminal “hit and run” penalties. Also, staying at the scene will give you the opportunity to speak with the other driver and fill out a police report, which will help you in the long run.

2. Move your vehicles to the side of the road if you can. You do not have to leave the vehicles where they came to rest. That blocks traffic and can be dangerous for you if you are walking near the vehicles.

3. Check for Injuries: Make sure to check yourself and the passengers of your car for any serious injuries. If someone need immediate medical care, call an ambulance.

4. Share Information: Do not leave the scene until you have gathered the following information from the other driver: name, phone number, driver’s license number, address, license plate number. If the other driver is not from BC, get his or her insurance and registration information. You can photograph this information with your cell phone. It is also a good idea to speak with any witnesses and ask for their contact information, so that, if need be, they can support your version of the incident.

5. Never Admit Fault: Even if you believe you are to blame for the accident, do not admit fault by apologizing or attempting to explain your actions without first speaking to car accident lawyers in Vancouver.

6. Call the Police: If someone appears injured, call for an officer to be sent to the scene to fill out an accident report. If you are not at fault for the incident, a police report which indicates that the other driver was to blame can greatly help your chances in receiving compensation. Not all police do come to all accident calls, some, especially in Vancouver, only attend those they deem to be serious.

7. Take Photos: Make sure to photograph the damage done to your vehicle and any other evidence at the scene, such as the other driver’s car, skid marks, etc. You can also photograph the other driver’s information.

After taking these steps, the next part of the process will be to contact Taylor & Blair LLP, car accident lawyers in Vancouver. If you have found yourself the victim of a car accident, contact us now, so that we can advise you on your rights and begin building your case. Here at Taylor and Blair, we fight for your rights, and we won’t rest until you have received the compensation you deserve.

Kevin Blair &
Graham Taylor

Taylor & Blair LLP
Personal Injury lawyers
1607 – 805 West Broadway
Vancouver, B.C.