As a Personal Injury Lawyer in Santa Monica, Cohen Legal has seen firsthand the devastating consequences of car accidents. In fact, car accidents are one of the leading causes of personal injury cases in the United States. While we all hope to never be involved in a car accident, it’s important to be prepared and know what to do if the worst should happen. In this blog, we will discuss some important information about car accidents and what you should do if you are involved in one.
Causes of Car Accidents
There are many factors that can contribute to a car accident, including:
- Distracted driving: This is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Distractions can include texting, eating, or anything else that takes your attention away from the road.
- Speeding: Driving over the speed limit can increase the likelihood of a car accident, and also increase the severity of injuries sustained in a crash.
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can impair your judgment, vision, and reaction time, making it more likely that you will be involved in a car accident.
- Reckless driving: This includes things like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and failing to yield to other drivers.
- Weather conditions: Rain, snow, and ice can all make driving more difficult and increase the likelihood of a car accident.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
If you are involved in a car accident, it’s important to take the following steps:
- Check for injuries: The first thing you should do is make sure that everyone involved in the accident is okay. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
- Call the police: Even if the accident is minor, it’s important to call the police and have them come to the scene. The police will create a report that can be used later on if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
- Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident.
- Gather evidence: Take pictures of the scene, including damage to the vehicles, any injuries sustained, and the surrounding area.
- Contact your insurance company: Let your insurance company know that you have been involved in an accident. They will guide you through the next steps.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer: If you have been injured in the accident, it’s important to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, and can represent you in any legal proceedings that may arise.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident. However, insurance companies are often more concerned with their bottom line than with your well-being, and may try to offer you a settlement that is less than what you deserve. A personal injury lawyer can help ensure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries and other damages.
Here are some of the ways that a personal injury lawyer can help you after a car accident:
- Gathering evidence: A lawyer can help you gather evidence to support your case, including medical records, police reports, and witness statements.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Your lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Representing you in court: If necessary, your lawyer can represent you in court to help you get the best possible outcome.
- Providing peace of mind: Knowing that you have a knowledgeable and experienced legal advocate on your side can provide peace of mind during a difficult time.
At Cohen Legal, we have years of experience representing clients who have been injured in car accidents. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that an accident can take on you and your family. That’s why we work tirelessly to ensure that our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
If you have been injured in a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact us at Cohen Legal. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and answer any questions you may have. Our team of experienced personal injury lawyers will fight for your rights and help you get back on your feet after an accident. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.