Important Steps To Take To Ensure You & Your Family Are Protected in Case of an Auto Accident
Did you know that more than two million people are injured in the U.S. every year in automobile accidents? Here at Murphy Falcon Murphy, our experienced auto accident attorneys are here to help you get the compensation you need if you were in an accident caused by another person’s negligence.
While we hope that you never end up in a car accident, there are some important steps you should take to protect yourself and your family if you are in an auto accident. Continue reading to learn more, and if you’d like to schedule an appointment with a Baltimore car accident attorney, contact us today.
Steps To Take To Before an Accident
Whether or not you end up in a car accident, there are some preventative measures you can take to ensure you’re protected.
1. Have Car Insurance
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t have auto insurance. In Maryland, all drivers are required to have at least $30,000 in bodily injury liability ($60,000 for two or more people), as well as $15,000 in property damage liability coverage. If you don’t have auto insurance and you’re in an accident, you could be held financially responsible for the damages.
2.Carry the Right Documents
When you’re driving, it’s important to have your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance with you. The police will need to see these documents if you’re in an accident. If you don’t have them, you could be ticketed.
3. Maintain Your Vehicle
You should also make sure your vehicle is properly maintained. This includes having the right tires for the season, making sure your brakes are in good working order, and that all your lights are working. By taking these steps, you can help prevent accidents.
4. Practice Safe Driving Habits
Of course, the best way to prevent accidents is to practice safe driving habits. This includes obeying the speed limit, not driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, not distracted driving, and more. By being a safe driver, you can help protect yourself and others on the road.
What To Do if You Are in an Accident
If you do, unfortunately, end up in a car accident, make sure you take the appropriate steps to protect yourself.
1. Call 9-1-1
Call 9-1-1 as soon as possible after an accident. If someone is injured, ask for medical assistance. The police will create an accident report and document the scene, which may be important later on if you file a personal injury claim.
2. Get Medical Treatment
If you are injured, seek medical treatment immediately. Not only is it important to get the treatment you need, but also having documentation of your injuries will be important if you decide to file a personal injury claim.
3. Reposition Vehicles
If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
4. Gather Information From the Other Driver
Be sure to get the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance company, and policy number. You should also get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
5. Take Photos of the Accident Scene
If possible, take photos of the accident, including any damage to your vehicle and the other driver’s vehicle. These photos may be helpful later on if you need to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
6. Contact Your Insurance Company and Report Your Claim
As soon as possible after the accident, you should contact your auto insurance company and give them a report of the accident. Be sure to follow their instructions on what to do next.
7. Get in Touch With a Car Accident Attorney
If you were injured in an auto accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and more. An experienced auto accident attorney at Murphy Falcon Murphy can help you understand your legal options and get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Murphy Falcon Murphy – Baltimore Auto Accident Attorneys
Our team of car accident attorneys is composed of some of the leading trial lawyers in Baltimore. We have extensive experience handling a wide range of personal injury cases, and we are passionate about giving a voice to those who need representation and justice. We will fight for your best interests and do our best to secure you the compensation needed to recover from your personal injury.
If you’re in need of a responsible, flexible, and experienced car accident attorney in Baltimore, look no further than Murphy Falcon Murphy. Schedule a consultation today.