Unfortunately, auto accidents are far too common in today’s fast-paced, always-on-the-go world. And as the number of drivers on the road increases, so does the number of accidents. When you add in the fact that the modern driver is also more distracted than they’ve ever been as the result of mobile devices and in-car technology and entertainment, it’s almost surprising that there aren’t more incidents on the roads.
For readers in our local area, Phoenix car accident lawyers have never been in higher demand. Their expertise and knowledge regarding how to deal with auto collisions are invaluable for those who have gone through this horrible ordeal. If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of having to deal with such an event, here are 5 common questions about auto accidents and what to do if you are ever involved in one:
Question #1: What Do I Need to Do in the Immediate Aftermath of an Accident?
Directly following any accident, the first thing you need to do is assess any injuries to yourself, your passengers, as well as anyone else involved. If you can, move your car off of the roadway and to a safe location away from traffic. If necessary, call 911 for medical services immediately.
Once everyone is safe and cared for, gather information regarding the incident. Take pictures or videos, exchange information with the other driver, and collect contact info from any witnesses present at the scene.
Q #2: Should I Contact the Police?
It is recommended that you always call the police in the case of any accident, regardless of how minor it may be. This guarantees that the details of the situation will be legally and accurately documented and available for later reference in the case of dealing with the insurance company or going to court.
Q #3: What Happens When the Other Driver Isn’t Insured?
In the state of Arizona, all drivers are mandated by law to have car insurance that meets the minimum liability requirements. However, some fail to obey this law. This is where a Phoenix car accident lawyer can step in and navigate the complexities of dealing with a collision involving someone without coverage.
Q #4: What Is the Time Limit in Filing an Accident Claim in Arizona?
At current writing, the statue stands at two years for filing a claim. However, we recommend initiating the process as soon as possible, as to avoid the loss of evidence or unreliable witness testimony due to fading memories.
Q #5: Do I Need to Hire a Phoenix Car Accident Attorney?
While this isn’t required, the fact is that going it alone in this type of scenario rarely works out in the victims’ favor. The insurance companies will have their legal team prepared to fight you at every turn. You should have someone in your corner fighting for you.
A Closing Piece of Advice
One thing you should never do following an accident is discuss settlement terms or compensation with the insurance companies without at least consulting with an attorney first. Even if you ultimately decide against hiring a lawyer (a highly inadvisable move) you should at least make sure that you are aware of all of your options before making any final agreements.