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The immediate aftermath of an accident is stressful and overwhelming. This is especially true if the collision caused serious injuries or property damage.

The scene may be chaotic, but it is important to stay calm because your behavior could impact your ability to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver. There are several steps that you can take to strengthen your potential claim if you decide to file a lawsuit.

If you were in an accident that a negligent motorist caused, then you may be entitled to compensation to pay for lost wages, medical expenses, and other damages. A Scottsdale accident lawyer from the Rudolph & Hammond Law Firm guide you through the claims process. Call us today at 480-951-9700 to schedule a consultation.

Accident

Until then, read on to learn five tips for handling the immediate aftermath of a crash:

  1. Get to Safety

The first step is to make sure that you are safe and out of the way of oncoming traffic. According to Arizona law, you should move your vehicle to the shoulder of the road or otherwise safe refuge if it can be done safely. If this is not possible or if there are severe injuries, then you should leave your car where it is.

  1. Contact Emergency Services

Do not assume that someone else has contacted emergency services. If there are serious injuries or damaged cars blocking the road, call 911 and request assistance.

Do not administer any emergency medical treatment unless you have the necessary training. It is better to cover any victims with a warm blanket and wait for professional help to arrive.

  1. Collect Details

Once emergency services secure the scene, or if the accident is not too serious, make sure you collect contact details from all drivers. DMV.org recommends that you collect names, contact details, addresses, license plate details, registration numbers and email addresses from all drivers on the scene.

  1. Identify Witnesses

Try to identify any independent bystanders who may have witnessed the accident. Their testimonies may support your claim if the case goes to trial. Politely request their contact details and ask if they are willing to assist you if necessary.

  1. File a Report

If there were injuries or serious property damage in the crash, then you must contact the police, who will then file a report. According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, you can obtain a copy of this report, including photographs, by filing a Request for Copy of Accident Report form.

If you were injured in a crash that another driver caused, contact the Rudolph & Hammond Law Firm. Our Scottsdale car accident lawyer will examine your case and determine if you may have valid grounds for a claim. Call us today at 480-951-9700 to schedule an initial consultation.

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