Traffic Collision Accident help Legal Interests Protect Guide
Getting involved in a traffic collision can be a traumatizing experience. Needless to say, the collision will be unexpected and immediately after the incident, it is not unreasonable to expect that the individuals involved will be somewhat shaken and unable to think straight. However, it is important to keep a level head and clear mind once the incident has occurred, no matter how difficult it is, in order to ensure that the matter is handled in such a manner to ensure that all your interests are protected.
Here are a few easy to remember steps that might be helpful in assisting you to protect your interests after a traffic collision:-
1. Be careful what you say
Just remember the typical statements made by the police to an arrested individual - "anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law". Although you are not under arrest, that statement is a useful one to remember as you have to be careful when approaching the other party involved in the collision. Always remember that you should never admit guilt or make any statements that can be construed as a sign of guilt. For example, even saying "I'm sorry, are you all right?" can be prejudicial to your interests.
2. Control your temper
Even if you are very sure you are not the one at fault, restrain yourself from losing your cool and raising your voice at the other driver. Just like you, they would be shaken and it would not end well if both parties end up screaming at each other. Further, losing your cool means you are more likely to say something that you might regret later. Never get into a shouting match or a blame placing argument.
3. Make your statement immediately
Remember to report the incident to the police as soon as you can and let them take your statement. Be as thorough as possible but again remember that you should try to avoid saying things that will prejudice your case. However, never lie to the police as this could hurt you in the end when your lie is exposed (and lies can easily be exposed by a trained police officer or attorney).
4. Witnesses
If someone was with you when the incident occurred, also get them to make their statement to the police. Corroborative evidence is important and crucial in civil litigation.
5. Injuries
If anyone is injured, it is utmost important that they receive medical attention immediately. Severe injuries such as internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent, so it is best that they get medical help as soon as possible. This is even more so if you are the one injured. If you wait too long to seek medical attention, your chance to get monetary compensation will diminish as a good defence attorney can make it sound like your injuries could have been caused by something else in that interval.
6. Insurance
Don't forget to notify your insurers of the accident. This is a simple and obvious step that is unfortunately overlooked by most individuals.
At the end of it all, just remember that while a traffic collision can be scary, it is not the end of the world, especially if you escaped without injuries. Don't be frazzled and get your head straight as soon as you can, to ensure that you can take the necessary measures to protect your interests as soon as possible.
