In the height of a car collision, most people will tend to panic and be in total distress. Although they might not be able to think straight because of their current situation, they must still be aware of which proactive steps they need to take after their accident.
Here are four essential steps to follow after a motor vehicle collision in Arizona:
Assess your condition and call 911
After the car accident, try to stay awake and keep your composure. Call 911 to report your crash and assess yourself for any cuts, lacerations or signs of head trauma. Once the paramedics arrive on the scene, let them know about your condition.
If possible, request to be taken to the nearest hospital to get yourself properly checked and treated by a healthcare professional.
Notify the local police
While you are still at the scene with the paramedics, you must also call the local police and wait for them to arrive. Since private citizens are not required in Arizona to report car accidents, the law enforcer will file the crash report to the state’s Motor Vehicle Division (AZMVD).
This step is crucial as it creates an official record of the accident, which you can use later when you need to file your personal injury claim.
Collect more evidence
After arriving at the hospital and getting treated for your injuries, keep a copy of your medical report and hospital bills. You must also return to the place of the accident to gather additional proof. You can do this by taking photos and videos of the site, your car and the other driver’s car.
By collecting vital documentation of your car accident, you can determine who was at fault and provide evidence for your insurance claim.
Inform your insurance company
Call your auto insurance company to inform them about the crash. A good rule of thumb to follow when conversing with them is to only provide them with the basic facts and nothing else. This is because if you make a recorded statement about your injuries or who you think was at fault, they may use these against you to try to decrease your claim’s amount.
Your path to recovery awaits
By understanding your rights and Arizona’s car accident compensation laws, you can navigate the legal process with ease and file your claim with minimal hurdles along the way.