What is considered a car accident?

A car accident happens when one or more vehicles either collide with one another, a person, or with an immobile object. A car is considered to have engaged in an accident when it has sustained damage that was caused by events such as theft, vandalism, hail, etc. While some car crashes result in property damage, others are more serious in nature and result in those occupying the vehicles to suffer severe or fatal injuries.

If you were involved in a car accident that resulted in property damage and/or injuries and you aren’t sure whether you need to retain a lawyer, the best thing you can do is schedule a consultation with an accident attorney in your city. Most lawyers provide free consultations which give you the opportunity to ask questions and decide if their legal assistance is needed.

How frequently are car crashes occurring?

Car accidents are occurring at an alarming rate and serve as the leading cause of death in the U.S., says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In fact, it is estimated that over 37,000 people die in car crashes each year. There are many factors that contribute to car crashes occurring, however, driver error stands firm as the main reason for why they happen. Some of the more common causes of car accidents include:

• Failing to adjust driving when inclement (i.e. rain, hail, wind, etc.) weather is present.
• Driving while intoxicated.
• Ignoring traffic signs and signals.
• Speeding
• Driving recklessly.
• Driving aggressively.
• Distracted driving.
• Driving while fatigued.

If a drunk, distracted, or tired driver was responsible for causing an accident and you are now looking to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, rental costs, and more, its time you begin looking for a qualified accident law firm in your area. USAttorneys.com can help you locate some prospective accident law firms near you that can provide you with the legal help you will need to get you the maximum amount of compensation you are entitled to.

 

What should I do if I was involved in a car accident?

 

If you were recently involved in an accident, it is important to remember your responsibilities as a driver. You must remain at the scene until law enforcement has arrived and exchange information with the other individuals who were involved (i.e. the driver, motorcyclist, pedestrian, etc.). If you were involved in an accident with more than one vehicle, be sure to write down the following information for eachdriver who was involved in the collision:

• Their first and last name. If the driver is not the owner of the vehicle, be sure to get the owner’s name from the operator of the vehicle. You will likely need to file a claim with the vehicle owner’s insurance carrier, not the driver.
• Their phone number.
• Insurance information, including but not limited to, their policy number, insurance company name, phone number, policyholder’s name, etc.
• The year, make, and model of all the vehicles involved.
• Their license plate number.
• VIN

Be sure to also write down details regarding the accident such as where it occurred, what time, and the factors you believe to have caused it. If you can, take photos of the accident scene along with any damage/injuries that were sustained.

It is always a good idea to reach out to an accident lawyer in your area following the occurrence of an accident as they can provide you with legal advice that can get you closer to recovering the compensation you need. To find a lawyer in your city now, contact USAttorneys.com.