The last thing you would expect on a Monday morning is an ill-fated car crash. Unfortunately, such accidents are rather common on Arizona roads and often have disastrous consequences. Immediately after the crash in Tucson, you are expected to take action. As a driver, you have a few rights and responsibilities that are worth knowing. You may also want to contact a Tucson auto accident attorney to know about a possible injury claim. Below is an easy guide for your help.
What to do right after?
– Call the police. If someone was injured, killed, or when there was evident property damage, you must inform the local law enforcement. Do not flee the scene, or you may have to deal with a ‘hit & run’ charge.
– Check if someone is injured. If a driver, passenger, or pedestrian requires medical help, call 911 right away. You shouldn’t try to move the injured unless you are trained to offer first aid. You may end up doing more harm than good.
– Collect evidence. You need to take photos and videos of the accident scene. Document all your injuries, and ask the investigating officer if you can collect physical evidence, such as broken car parts.
– Get details. Exchange insurance and contact details with other drivers. Check if there were witnesses to the accident, who can give a statement to the police. Do not blame anyone or admit fault after the crash.
When do you need an attorney?
As we mentioned, some car crashes can cause massive damage. If you have sustained head trauma, brain injuries, back injuries, spinal cord & neck injuries, you may need months in recovery. Make sure that you contact an attorney before you go ahead and negotiate with the insurance representative. You have to inform your insurer at the earliest, and if you intend to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer (Arizona is a fault state), you must do so within a reasonable time. Consider hiring an attorney before you discuss the settlement. Your attorney can negotiate better and can file a lawsuit if things do not get to an end as expected.
Most car accident attorneys in AZ work on a contingency fee. You don’t need to pay the lawyer unless and until they have won. That makes it easy to seek legal help when you need it the most. Don’t delay in taking immediate action after the accident.