Car accidents can be scary and overwhelming, but knowing what to do next is crucial. At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, we understand the stress and frustration caused by auto accidents. With 65 years of legal representation experience, our team of experts is here to help. After a car accident in Ohio, you must take several essential steps to ensure a smooth and fair outcome. We’ll guide you through the process, from reporting the accident to your insurance company to seeking medical attention if needed. We aim to ease your burden during this difficult time and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Partnering with us lets you rest easy, knowing capable hands handle your case.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Ohio
– Contact details: Include all parties’ full names, addresses, and phone numbers.
– Vehicle information: Provide each vehicle’s make, model, and license plate numbers.
– Insurance details: Collect insurance information for all parties.
– Vehicle registration: Note the name of the person or entity to whom the vehicle is registered.
Remember, in the event of an accident, the police will facilitate the exchange of all necessary information between the parties involved.
Stay at the accident scene and immediately notify the police.
When involved in a car accident, prioritize safety as the most important thing to remember. If there are any injuries, inform the 911 operator immediately for prompt medical assistance. Additionally, either wait for the police to arrive or exchange information with the other driver if it is a minor accident and both vehicles are drivable to comply with the law. Staying calm and focused during an accident is crucial to ensure that everyone involved receives the proper care and attention they need.
Take action to notify approaching vehicles about the accident.
If your vehicles cannot move, you can signal other drivers about the issue ahead by using lights, flares, or reflectors. Additionally, witnesses can redirect traffic to prevent further incidents. If the police are absent, remember to file a police report the next day to contribute to a safe and responsible road environment. Taking these steps can help reduce harm and ensure everyone’s safety.
Gather Information
Whether you are a witness, driver, or passenger, your side of the story can help paint a clearer picture of what happened. Gathering as much information as possible right away is important, as memories can fade over time. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and take notes; even the smallest details can make a difference. Gathering information early on ensures that you take the proper steps and resolve the situation fairly.
Protect your rights
Protecting your rights means being aware of what you say, even to the police. Avoiding admitting fault, regardless of the circumstances, is essential. Any admissible statement you make during an investigation can impact your rights. Thus, it’s crucial to know your rights and how to protect them should you ever find yourself in a potentially hostile situation with the authorities. Remembering this can help you remain in control and always protect your rights.
Document the Accident
Documenting an accident may initially seem overwhelming, but technology has made it easier than ever before. You can use your smartphone to snap photos of the accident scene, including street signs, skid marks, and vehicle damage. Additionally, it’s crucial to note details like the time of day and weather conditions, as they may have played a role in the accident. Including the names of present police officers is also important for future reference. Lastly, make sure to note whether any vehicles involved were towed or had pre-existing damage, as this information may impact your insurance claim outcome. By carefully documenting these details, you can have peace of mind knowing you’ve taken all necessary steps to protect yourself in the unfortunate event of an accident.
Arrange Towing
While you can certainly rely on the police to call a tow truck for you, it’s best to try and arrange for your own if possible. That way, you’ll have more control over the situation and will be able to ensure that your vehicle is taken to the correct location. Make sure to ask about the cost of the tow and obtain the tow truck driver’s contact information.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly
After an accident, the moments that follow may seem scary and overwhelming. However, your health should be your top priority. It is crucial to promptly seek medical attention, even if you feel okay, to ensure that any potential underlying health issues are not overlooked. Notifying and cooperating with your insurance company can facilitate the best resolution for your situation. If you encounter insufficient support from your insurance agent, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. Above all, remember to prioritize your well-being and seek immediate medical attention.
File an Accident Report
In Ohio, ensure that you file an accident report if significant injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceed $1,000. While prioritizing your health and safety, take action and file the report with the Ohio Department of Public Safety within six months of the incident to protect your legal rights and hold negligent drivers accountable, making the roads safer for everyone. Take action today and file your report without hesitation.
Get the Justice and Compensation You Deserve – Call Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault Today!
Accidents can occur suddenly, resulting in severe injuries and overwhelming damages. At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, we empathize with the pain and financial burden caused by accidents. That’s why we are committed to fighting for your justice and rightful compensation. Our experienced Toledo car accident attorneys have effectively represented numerous victims of auto accidents in Southeast Michigan and Northwest Ohio, ensuring their rights are fully safeguarded. Don’t endure silently; reach out to us today at 419-843-6663 or through our online contact form to pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
With a local personal injury attorney near you, help is just a phone call away.
