Understanding the Legal Process: What to Do After a Car Accident in Fresno

A car wreck can happen when you least expect it. The average motorist is involved in approximately four crashes over the course of their lifetime. Even if you are a safe, skilled, careful driver, you should still be prepared for a collision. Knowing what needs to be done in the immediate aftermath of an accident can go a long way toward protecting your health, emotional well-being, and your legal rights. At Nunes Law, Inc., we are here to take the wheel in the claims process. Here, our Fresno auto accident lawyer highlights the most important things to do after a crash in Fresno County.

Step #1: Stop Your Vehicle, Exchange Information, and Contact the Police

State law is very clear: All motorists involved in a collision are required to stop, exchange relevant information, and stay at the scene. Notably, under California law (California Penal Code § 20001), it is a criminal violation to unlawfully leave the scene of an accident. If it is a crash causing a serious bodily injury to another person, fleeing the scene could even be a felony offense.

Immediately after a car accident, stop your vehicle safely without obstructing traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Next, essential information must be exchanged with the other parties involved. This includes names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information. Beyond that, you should gather the make, model, and license plate numbers of all vehicles involved.

All injury crashes should be reported to law enforcement in a timely manner. You should report the accident to the Fresno Police Department, the Fresno County Sheriff, or the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The responding officers will help to control the scene. They will also write an official report for the crash. The Fresno Police Department usually will only write a report if one of the parties is taken by ambulance or the report involves a government vehicle. Otherise, the Fresno Police Department will arrive and help the parties exchange ownership and insurance information.

Exception: Medical emergencies take the priority. You should always get immediate emergency medical treatment for a severe injury.

Step #2: Seek Prompt Medical Care for Any Physical Injuries Suffered in the Crash

You need to see a doctor after a car accident in Fresno if you were hurt in an accident. Indeed, even if you feel fine, seek medical attention immediately after the accident. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma might not be immediately apparent. In other words, you may be far more seriously injured than you initially think. Protect yourself by seeing a doctor. Notably, you need medical records to be eligible to bring a car accident injury claim in Fresno, CA.

Step #3: Proactively Document the Motor Vehicle Collision

After ensuring your safety and health, you should make a proactive effort to document the scene of the accident. If it is safe to do so, take photographs of the vehicles from different angles. Among other things, you should try to show the damage and their positions on the road. Capture images of road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and other notable details. If there are witnesses, politely ask for their contact details—remember, their independent account can be crucial in a dispute.

Step #4: Beware of Insurance Adjusters (They are Not On Your Side)

After an accident, insurance adjusters will contact you to discuss the incident. Remember, their goal is to minimize the payout for their company. Be cautious about what you say. Never admit/accept fault for a crash. As a best practice, you should not give a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster without first consulting a Fresno, CA, auto accident attorney.

Step #5: Consult With a Top-Tier Fresno Car Accident Lawyer

Do not go through the car accident injury claims process alone. The right law firm can make a dramatic difference in an auto accident injury claim. A qualified attorney can navigate the complexities of car accident claims and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. Among other things, your lawyer can help you understand the full extent of your legal options, represent you in negotiations with insurance companies, and take aggressive action to help you secure the absolute maximum financial compensation.

Set Up a Free Consultation With a Top-Tier Fresno, CA Auto Accident Attorney Today

At Nunes Law, Inc, our Fresno car accident lawyer puts the rights and interests of injured victims first. If you or your loved one was hurt in a motor vehicle crash, we are here to help. Contact us today for a no cost, no strings attached case evaluation. From our office in Fresno, we represent injured victims in Fresno County and throughout all of Central California.