Understandably so, you may be overwhelmed immediately following your car accident. But, amid all the chaos surrounding you, one thing that you must keep in mind is that you must call the police. Follow along to find out why it is important to call 911 after your accident and how a proficient Toronto car accident lawyer at Merricks Law Group, P.A. can guide you through the rest of the necessary steps.
Why do I need to call the police after my accident?
The main reason why you may want a law enforcement officer to arrive at the scene of your accident is so that they may conduct an official accident report. This is a pivotal piece of proof for your personal injury claim as it may provide the following details:
- Your account of the events that led to your car accident.
- The other driver’s account of the events that led to your car accident, and perhaps even an admittance of guilt.
- The damage location on your car, and perhaps even other property damage you incurred.
- The make and model of your car and the other driver’s car.
- The date, time, and location in which your car accident took place.
- The possibly hazardous road conditions that may have led to your car accident.
- The possibly dangerous inclement weather that may have contributed to your car accident.
In addition, a law enforcement officer may dispatch an ambulance to the scene of your accident on your behalf. It is essential that you receive medical attention even if you do not feel or notice any injuries, as certain injuries may take time to surface.
What else should I do after my accident?
While the police may handle a lot of tasks for you at the scene of your accident, you must carry out some independent work as well. Below are additional steps you must ensure are taken:
- Take photos and videos of your personal injuries, your car’s damages, and the overall scene of the accident so that you can submit them as evidence later on.
- Ask for access to surveillance camera footage of your accident playing out so that you can submit it as evidence later on.
- Collect the contact information of present witnesses so that they may provide testimony later on.
- Attend to paramedics and EMTs at the scene of the accident so that you can confirm the extent of your injuries.
- Allow the ambulance to transport you to the emergency room so that you can collect medical documents later on.
A talented Toronto auto accident lawyer at Merricks Law Group, P.A. is here whenever you are ready to initiate your personal injury claim. Simply give our firm a call at your earliest convenience.