People often think of a sideswipe accident as amounting to nothing more than a serious annoyance. While a sideswipe accident can certainly put a damper on your day, it is important to recognize that they can be just as dangerous as any other car accident. In fact, they can be deadly. If another driver sideswipes you, it is important to take the accident seriously, and there are several important steps that you should follow.
Step 1: Call the Authorities
If another motorist has sideswiped your vehicle, the first step is to alert the authorities. If anyone was seriously injured in the accident, you should call 911. If no one was seriously injured, call the police – even if you do not think the damage is serious. It is difficult to know from appearances alone how extensive the damage to your vehicle is, and injuries caused by car accidents can be slow to exhibit symptoms (Car Accidents and Delayed Pain). You are going to need a police report for your accident, so do not skip the important step of calling the police after a sideswipe accident. Further, it is in your best interest to seek medical attention after such an accident – early diagnosis generally means improved prognosis.
Step 2: Document the Scene of the Accident
The next order of business involves documenting the scene of the accident, including:
- Use your smartphone to take pictures and videos that illustrate exactly what happened. Do not forget to take pictures of any mitigating circumstances – such as poorly maintained roads or bad weather – that may have played a role in the accident.
- Take eyewitness testimonies and gather eyewitness contact information.
- Jot down your memories regarding exactly how the accident happened. Even minor car accidents are jarring, and the aftermath can blur your memories. Getting your thoughts on paper can help you keep your memories fresh.
Step 3: Work Closely with an Attorney
If another driver’s negligence leaves you injured in a sideswipe accident, working closely with an experienced personal injury attorney is in your best interests. While it is only natural to want to put an accident behind you, it can be hard to move forward if you are not fairly compensated for the damages you have suffered. Even a seemingly minor sideswipe accident can leave you with serious injuries and extensive damage to your car. A skilled personal injury attorney will aggressively advocate for your rights and for the compensation you need to cover your losses.
Call Us Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with a Car Accident Lawyer
If another motorist’s negligence leaves you injured in a sideswipe accident, you need the professional legal counsel of a skilled Killeen personal injury attorney. Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard in Killeen, Texas, is a formidable personal injury attorney with extensive experience helping clients like you obtain favorable legal results. Our dedicated legal team is here to help, so please do not hesitate to contact us or call us at (254) 220-4225 for more information today.
RELATED READING