Hi, my name is Randy Hill and I am just one of thousands of people around the world, tired and frustrated with the lack of consideration that is displayed by a growing "demographic" that I call, "the great unwashed and ill-mannered." People who can't seem to get outside their little world long enough to see the stress that they create on the rest of the population.
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Involved in an accident? Tips on what to do.
By Randy | June 6, 2008
Photo by Kenn Kiser
Living up here in the Pacific Northwest, I’m always amazed at how bad the drivers (and pedestrians) are. You risk having an accident every time you drive your car, walk or ride a bicycle on the roads around here.
Here are some quick tips that you might want to print out and put in your glove compartment the next time you find yourself in or witness an accident.
1. Do not leave the scene of the accident. Call the police, tell them where the accident occurred and (ask for medical help if needed).
2. Get names, addresses, and license numbers of all drivers involved.
3. Get description and registration number and insurance information of all cars involved. License Plate Number __ Registration # __ Make __ Year __ Damage __ Insurance Company __ Insurance Policy Number __
4. Get names and addresses of all witnesses. Witnesses will be a tremendous help to you in any subsequent court action if there is any question of liability involved. Get the names and addresses of as many witnesses as possible. If they refuse to identify themselves, jot down the license plate numbers of their automobiles. Do not discuss the accident with the witnesses. Do not give the witnesses’ names to anyone but the police, your attorney or your insurance company.
5. While waiting for police, write down:
Accident Information
Date
Time
Location
Weather
Road conditions
Damage
Estimate speed of the car
6. Summary of accident
7. Diagram of accident
8. Call an ambulance. If you have any reason to suspect you were injured in the accident, go to a hospital immediately or see a physician promptly. You’ll want it on record that you sought treatment right away, not in a week or so.
9. Obtain name of Police Officers, Department and Badge Number.
10. Do not assign or accept blame for the accident. – The scene of the accident is not the place to determine fault. Discuss the accident only with the police, your attorney and with representatives of your insurance company. Give the other party only your name and address. – Be cooperative with the police.
11. Call your insurance company to report the accident.
12. Call a personal injury attorney, not a real estate attorney.
13. Never give a signed statement to the claims adjuster representing the other driver’s insurance company. The same goes for a phone recording. They may be used against you in court to deny your claim. Speak with your personal injury attorney first.
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