While some car accidents are relatively minor and may not seem like a big deal, those involved in an accident must contact law enforcement any time a car accident occurs. It should come as no surprise that car accidents can produce a wide range of potential losses. While property damage and physical injury are among the most common, some people may not even realize they are injured until days after the accident. An experienced car accident lawyer will tell you that law enforcement can assist with ensuring the proper steps are taken following a car accident, including ensuring that accident victims receive the medical care they need. The following are some reasons it’s important to call law information following a car accident:
It’s the Law
When a car accident results in property damage over a particular value or involves people who have been injured, those involved are required by law to involve the police. Their presence can play a critical role in making sure that those involved in the accident get the assistance they need during a confusing situation.
To Receive the Help You Need
Car accidents are overwhelming; victims of car accidents may be in a state of shock, unable to navigate the appropriate next steps in the way that they would if they hadn’t just been through a traumatic event. When law enforcement arrives, they can provide immediate first aid, contact an ambulance, and clear the area in preparation for their arrival. When injuries have occurred, medical care is serious, and having law enforcement at the scene can help expedite getting help to the scene.
The Police Report
As a Woodland Hills, California car accident attorney like one at Barry P. Goldberg, A Professional Law Corporation can explain, when police are dispatched to an accident, they will secure all who were involved and begin investigating the accident and gathering information. They will speak with those involved and any witnesses who may have seen what happened. In some cases, the police report will outline what happened and even identify the party responsible for the accident. This document will be crucial for victims seeking compensation for their losses through the claims process.
Sometimes, They May Not Come
We know that contacting law enforcement in the event of a car accident is critical no matter how minor or severe the accident may be. However, sometimes, the police may never arrive at the scene. In cases involving minor accidents, the police may not be able to come to the scene because they have more severe things to tend to. When police departments are busy, they must triage how they will respond to their communities’ needs. In some situations, responding to a minor car accident may not rank high on the list of needs. There are many reasons why victims should contact the police, and one of the most important is to ensure that a police report is filed. If the police do not come to the scene of a minor accident, make sure you do the following:
- Gather all information from the other driver
- Collect as much evidence as possible
- Write down what happened
- Take pictures or video
While a police report certainly helps when an insurance claim is filed, victims can still file a claim without one. Car accidents can result in significant financial loss, damaged property, physical injuries, and missed time from work are just a few ways a victim may be adversely affected. To learn more about how a car accident lawyer could help you manage your case.