In Virginia, the person who causes a car accident is liable for any injuries and property damage that result from the crash. If you are involved in a Quantico car accident, you don’t want to be blamed for an accident that was someone else’s fault. Stafford and Quantico accident attorney Ben Glass suggests that you take the following steps to protect your Virginia accident claim.
- Take pictures of the accident scene. Use your cell phone and take pictures of the accident scene, the positions of the cars at the scene, and the damage to each vehicle.
- Contact the police. Virginia law requires that you contact the police when a car accident causes death, serious injury, or property damage. It is also a good idea to call the police even if the damage is minor. The insurance company may require a police report before it will pay damages. To report the accident, call 911 and let the dispatcher know that there has been a crash. Stay at the scene of the crash until the officer arrives.
- Exchange insurance information with the other driver. You can give the driver your name and phone number, but be careful about giving additional information.
- Get contact information from witnesses. If you are able to, ask any witnesses for their names and phone numbers. If your injuries prevent you from asking, ask someone at the scene to do this for you.
- See a doctor. A doctor will treat your immediate injuries and will give you a list of symptoms to watch for. Always follow your doctor’s instructions. Make sure you keep any follow-up appointments.
- Contact the other driver’s insurance company. Ask the agent how to file a claim and how to get your car repaired. The insurance company will send you forms to fill out. Take these forms when you meet with your Stafford accident attorney.
- Fill out paperwork. Fill out all paperwork accurately and completely, and make sure you get it in on time. The insurance company may use late or incomplete paperwork as an excuse to deny your claim.
- Contact a Stafford car accident lawyer. If you are seriously injured, a personal injury attorney will collect the evidence to prove liability, file your accident claim, and negotiate with the insurance company while you focus on getting well.
