What to do if you are involved in a car wreck?

1. If able, move your vehicle to a safe location. If not, turn on your hazard lights, exit the vehicle when it is safe to do so and move to a safe place. If you have an emergency kit, use its contents to warn other drivers.
2. Ask everyone who was in the car with you if they are okay and call for skilled help. Do not assume a person is not hurt just because they say so.
3. Call the police even if it is a minor collision. A police report can help establish liability and avoid a he said/she said situation. If the police do not show, file a citizen’s accident report as soon as able.
4. Exchange information with the other driver. You will want to get the other driver’s name, address, phone number, email, driver’s license number and insurance identification card. Take pictures of any identifying documents with your smart phone.
5. Take plenty of pictures and/or videos. Use the camera on your mobile to document the vehicle damage. The more pictures the better. Keep in mind that you want your photos to show the overall context of the collision. Take pictures from a distance to show the collision in its entirety and, if there are any skid marks, take pictures of those too.
6. If there are witnesses, try to get their information including their name, address, and phone number.
7. Do not post anything to social media regarding the collision.
8. If you are injured, seek medical treatment and consult with an attorney.

Remember, you have the right to file a personal injury claim against the party that caused you harm. Call us at (832) 433-7279 for a free consultation with one of our attorneys and to learn more about your claim, the compensation you may be entitled to receive, and how Hightower | Capellan can be of assistance.