1. Gather as much information at the scene of the accident as possible. You should exchange driver’s license information including: the other driver’s name, address, birthday, license number, expiration date and their insurance provider.
2. Ask to see the vehicle registration for additional information including the other car’s make, year, model, license plate number, license plate expiration date and vehicle identification number.
3. It is very important to know the name, address, telephone number and insurance provider of every other vehicle’s registered owner. Sometimes, the person driving the vehicle may not be the registered owner.
4. Get the names, addresses and telephone numbers of any passengers in the other car(s).
5. Get the names, addresses and telephone numbers of any witnesses at the accident. If possible, ask the witness to tell you what they saw and then to write the information down. Insist that the witness tell the police what they witnessed.
6. Write down weather conditions, the date, and the exact time that the accident occurred.
7. Record the name and badge number of the police officer at the scene of the accident and ask when you can obtain a copy of the police report.
8. If you have a camera, take pictures of the vehicles involved, skid marks, stop signs, traffic signals, crosswalks, street lights or any other information you feel will help you present your claim.
9. Seek medical treatment. If you are injured, it is important to get checked out by a doctor as promptly as possible.
10. If you are injured or you have questions about the accident, call McCutchen Napurano - The Law Firm. Our lawyers will provide you with a free consultation and will guide you to the next steps that are best for you and your family.