The 4th of July is one of the holidays that many people across America celebrate with parties, barbecues, fireworks, and more. Unfortunately, this isn’t always done in the most responsible way. In fact, some people are negligent and reckless in the ways they act.
Driving distracted, drunk driving, and fatigued driving are far too common on Independence Day, making the roads very dangerous. If you’re hurt in an auto accident, there are various steps that you can take to protect your rights.
Aside from clearing your vehicle from the road and getting to the sidewalk, one of the first things you want to do is get any necessary information from the other party involved and potential witnesses. This includes their contact information, insurance information, driver’s license, license plate number, and anything that can be used by your lawyer.
Take pictures of your vehicle, the scene of the accident, and any visible injuries you may have. These pictures can help paint a picture of what actually happened and how the accident may have been caused.
For instance, if there are tire marks, it can mean that the vehicle was speeding. The location of the damage to the vehicle can also give an idea of what happened. Finally, showing any injuries can help prove beneficial in a lawsuit.
By seeking medical attention as quickly as possible—from either a paramedic or a doctor—you can accomplish two things. First, you can get the treatment you need for any injuries you have sustained. Second, you may get medical records which go a long way in proving that the negligence caused the injuries.
In any situation when negligence results in a serious injury, having legal representation is very important. Dealing with the insurance company alone puts you at risk of being taken advantage of and having the defendant try to minimize your claim.
