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Being in a traffic accident can be an intensely jarring experience even if a couple of dented fenders are the only damage that the accident causes. It can be much more serious if someone becomes injured in a wreck. In both scenarios, it is very important to stay as calm and proactive as possible in the moments after the crash. This is not just to protect yourself physically in the short term but also to protect your right to seek financial restitution in the weeks and months to come.
With this in mind, here is a brief overview of the steps to take after a Mesa car accident that may help strengthen any personal injury lawsuit you may need to file. At every stage of your legal proceedings, the auto accident attorneys at Phillips Law Group can help you structure your claim to be as strong as possible, avoid legal roadblocks, and give yourself the best possible chances of securing the compensation that you need.
The caveat to this step and all the other ones listed below is that if a wreck results in someone suffering an injury requiring immediate medical attention, the only priority should be getting the injured individual to a hospital or urgent care clinic. In this case, they need to receive emergency medical treatment immediately.
That said, if it is feasible and safe to do so, the first priority for anyone caught up in a non-life-threatening car accident should be moving their vehicle to the side of the road. This way, they are not blocking the road and not in danger of being struck by oncoming traffic.
After moving out of the way of traffic, the next priority for people involved in auto accidents in Mesa should be calling 911. Even if no one has suffered serious injuries, it is still a good idea to call 911 so that police can respond to the scene, collect statements from everyone, and write up an accident report. This report may be used as court-admissible evidence later on.
The next step to take after a car wreck in Mesa should be exchanging contact and insurance information with every person directly involved in the incident. Along with performing the previous two steps, Arizona state law requires this for anyone physically able to do so after a crash. Failing to complete these steps may result in criminal charges for a hit-and-run accident.
Finally, while the law does not strictly require it, it can be very helpful to gather some evidence to support a potential civil claim before leaving the scene. Even small things can make a big difference, such as taking photos of vehicle damage, making note of nearby traffic cameras, and getting contact information from eyewitnesses. This information can help support a claim for compensation against the person at fault.
In addition to doing all the things mentioned above, you should also make it a high priority to contact legal counsel after an auto accident you were not to blame for. Your attorney can help you complete important steps to take after a Mesa car accident, including guiding you through pre-litigation procedures and making you much more effective at demanding compensation.
If you have further questions about what you should do after your car wreck, the team at Phillips Law Group can help provide the answers and information you need. Call today to set up a free consultation with a member of our legal team.
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