Being in a car accident is one of the most unfortunate and unforeseen events that can happen to anyone. You can follow all the traffic rules you want, but a small mistake in timing or attention to detail can cause a severe car accident leading to legal consequences.
Since Denver is already on top of the list for car accident fatalities (according to Westword), you must be cautious before hitting the roads and be prepared in case of an accident.
Unfortunately, many people do not know how to react after a car accident, which strengthens the other party, regardless of who is at fault, which is why being prepared in advance is always a great idea.
Looking for the right things to do after getting in a car accident? Look no further because we have crafted a list of valuable things to consider if you are involved in a car accident in Denver.
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Never Run Away
One of the worst things you can do after being in a car accident is to run away from the scene. Even if you think no one was hurt or the vehicles are not as damaged, running away can be considered a crime that automatically implies you are guilty.
Denver (one of the UK counties with the highest road rage incidents) state law considers running away from the accident scene as a class 4 felony that leads to several years in jail and a hefty fine. Unless you are okay with that, the best thing to do after a car accident is to stop your vehicle and assess the results of your case.
Even if no one is in the other car, stopping and waiting for them to return is ideal.
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Check For Injuries
After stopping, get out of the car to check yourself for injuries. If you have children on board, ask them whether they are feeling dizzy any internal part of their body hurts.
Colorado state statistics suggest that over 57,000 people are involved in car accidents yearly, leading to severe injuries. We recommend getting in touch with an ethical car accident lawyer in Denver for legal advice.
If you see someone in unbearable pain, immediately call 911 to the accident scene for immediate medical aid.
Moreover, always keep a few essential first aid items in your car to tackle injuries in such unpredictable events on the road.
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Connect With The Other Party
Connect with other vehicle (s) involved in the accident to get their information, such as name, contact number, insurance number, and vehicle number. It is a mandatory step that establishes clear lines of communication and facilitates the process when you file for insurance.
This information exchange allows each party’s insurance company to properly assess the extent of damages and injuries, determine liability, and work toward a fair and efficient resolution.
Plus, if the dispute runs longer, you can contact the other party personally and find a reasonable solution.
It is advisable that you remain nice to them but not mention being at fault.
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Gather Graphic Evidence
If you are planning to claim insurance, regardless of the extent of damage, it is ideal to gather evidence on the spot of the accident. Take photos and videos of the cars with your number plates visible.
Also, capture pictures of injuries sustained by passengers in your car. It can be difficult to take pictures when you are going through a traumatic experience, but remember that it will be conducive to proving your case in front of the insurance company.
Be polite and inform the other vehicle’s passengers about your intent to make a video.
However, you must refrain from interfering with the ongoing police investigation or making changes in the accident scene to take pictures.
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Inform the Police
No, they won’t put you in jail. Even if there is nothing serious, you should call Denver police so they can investigate the scene and confirm the severity of the accident.
The officials will examine you and question you about the accident. Tell them exactly what happened, and mention forgetting stuff if you can’t remember everything.
You can stay with the police when the other party elaborates their side of the story to ensure there is no misinformation or false scenarios provided to the police.
After making official statements, stick to your side of the story without changing any statements to strengthen your cause further.
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Go to the Hospital
Your body goes through a massive adrenaline rush after getting in an accident. It means you might not feel internal injuries at the time of the incident. It takes at least 12 to 24 hours for your body to show all internal and external injury symptoms.
Most accident victims are prone to developing high fever, nausea, dizziness, ringing of ears, whiplash, spinal pain, and muscle & tissue damage. Visiting a doctor is advisable to confirm the consequences on your health.
Even something as minor as a small tissue injury can lead to lifelong trauma of chronic pain.
You can also feel anxiety, stress, or fear of going on the road. PTSD is a real thing that varies from patient to patient, depending on the intensity of the accident.
Your doctor will suggest some tests and medication to control the pain and help you sleep better.
Conclusion
Car accidents are growing every year in Denver, which is why drivers must be prepared. Always stop at the scene of the tragedy and connect with people from the other vehicles to ensure everyone is safe.
Call the police and gather evidence if you want to claim insurance or strengthen your case in court for compensation. Even if you are not at fault, the best practice is to stop until the police are there.
Once everything is sorted, visit a doctor to treat your injuries and eliminate any medical concerns promptly.
Although accidents are unfortunate and unwanted, dealing with them properly will save you time and energy.