No Virginia driver wants to get into a car accident. However, it is important for people to know how to handle the situation if it ever happens.
The first step after getting in a car accident is to stop the vehicle. Even if drivers suspect no damage occurred, they have a legal obligation to stop. The second step is to check to see if anyone needs medical care and assess any damage to vehicles or property. The third step is to call the police. It is important to get an accident report even if the damage is minor.
While waiting for police, drivers should start gathering information about the crash. They should get the names, addresses, phone numbers, license plate numbers and insurance information of all the other drivers involved. People should make a list of all visible damage and use a cellphone to take pictures or videos of the crash scene. They should also contact their insurance companies to report the accident as soon as possible. However, one thing drivers should never do is admit responsibility for a crash. Legal contracts for auto insurance policies forbid drivers from assuming responsibility. In addition, it can be difficult to know who caused the accident in the immediate aftermath, so the determination should be left to investigators.
Some victims of motor vehicle accidents may not be aware they are injured until hours or even days after a crash. People who experience symptoms after leaving a crash scene should seek immediate medical care. After that, they may benefit from speaking to an attorney about their legal options. It may be possible for victims to file a personal injury claim seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.