If you or a family member is involved in an accident of any type: automobile, boating, slip and fall; the following is a checklist to help you protect your legal rights.  If you are unsure what you should do after being involved in an accident, call our personal injury attorney, Jesse S. Atwal, to determine your next best option.

THE DOs

DO write down the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all potential witnesses to an accident.

DO seek medical attention immediately.  A delay in your treatment after the accident can negatively affect your chances of settling the case in the future. 

DO summon the police, in appropriate cases.  It is always prudent to file a police report with the proper agency.

DO cooperate with all law enforcement and emergency personnel who respond to the scene.

DO get the license plate numbers of all other vehicles involved in car accidents and the drivers’ names, addresses, telephone numbers, and insurance information.

DO contact your health, homeowner’s, and/or automobile insurance companies, as appropriate.  Do contact an attorney before you give your statements to any insurance adjustor. 

DO take photographs of all of the following, as applicable, as soon as possible after the accident:

• The scene of the accident, from all angles.
• The product or animal that caused your injuries.
• Your injuries.
• Any property damage.

DO contact an attorney to determine your next best step after the accident.

THE DON’Ts

DON’T move your vehicle after an automobile accident unless necessary for safety or required by a police officer.

DON’T leave the scene of an accident until the police tell you it is okay to do so.

DON’T throw away any potential evidence in the case, such as defective products, or torn or blood-stained clothing.

DON’T engage in discussions as to fault with anyone, and make sure you don’t apologize for anything-it can be considered evidence that you were legally at fault.

DON’T agree to sign anything without contacting a personal injury attorney to review the documents.

Sacramento Family Law Attorney Robert Bowman helps clients across California. If you or someone you know has legal questions regarding divorce, child support, child custody, or spousal support cases and more, Robert Bowman is an aggressive advocate for your rights.