What To Do When a Car Accident Happens While on Vacation
Auto accidents occur when you least expect them. As a result, many injured victims are in a state of shock when they get involved in an accident due to another’s fault. But things can get worse when you are on vacation and experience a car accident.
Navigating an auto accident while on vacation in an unfamiliar state or city can make the process overwhelming. You need an experienced car accident attorney on your side to help you protect your interests and ensure you are compensated for the damages you suffered.
Steps to Take if a Car Accident Occurs When You are on Vacation in California
These are a few necessary steps to take if you are in a car accident while on vacation:
Alert the Authorities
You need to call 911 and let the authorities know the extent of the injuries, whether seemingly minor or major. You should make sure everyone around you is fine and seek necessary medical help. A healthcare professional will check you for injuries and document the extent of damage done.
There are other reasons to call 911 if you are in a car accident during a vacation trip. Rescuers can come to you as soon as possible to provide appropriate care. An ambulance can respond to any medical emergency, especially if someone is severely injured.
Firefighters may be required to remove a trapped occupant from the car. Police officers may file a crash report about the incident that can be used later during your car accident claim against the responsible party.
Gather Evidence
The next step is to take as many photos and videos as you can. You can ask a family member, friend, or a witness to take photos of the accident scene if you are injured or overwhelmed. Make sure you document your injuries and get any property damage.
You should also take pictures of the damage suffered by the responsible party. Also, take photos of debris from property damage, skid marks on the road, intersections, traffic signals, and anything else you think is important and can be used as evidence.
Remember that you can prove liability with the help of these pictures. The at-fault party may misrepresent the extent of your injuries or lie about how the accident unfolded. Their insurance company may also deny the claim, delay the process, or compel you to take the claim to court. When you are armed with factual evidence, the insurance company will have no other choice but to settle quickly and out of court.
Exchange Information
Every driver involved in a car accident is required to exchange certain information as per California Vehicle Code Section 16025. This includes:
- Driver’s name and address
- Driver’s license number
- Registered car owner’s name and address
- Vehicle identification number
- Insurance policy number and information about the insurance carrier
Failure to do this may incur a fine. This information is needed by your accident attorney besides being a mandate to investigate the claim and ensure a quick favorable resolution.
Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Getting medical attention is a prerequisite to filing a personal injury claim. This is not the time to put on a brave face. You should be as honest about your injuries and pain as possible. The medical examiner will make a report of your injuries and pain which will be later used by the insurance company to either accept or deny a settlement.
Victims that suffer severe chest bruises, head lacerations, or bone fractures are usually taken to the hospital for further tests and treatment. You should keep all follow-up appointments with your doctor.
Talk to a Trusted Personal Injury Attorney in California
Reputable personal injury lawyers in California can guide you through the process if you find yourself in a car accident while on vacation. Your attorney will remind you of the things you need to do. Make sure you call an attorney immediately after dialing 911. They will also be able to answer any questions that you may have. Be as detailed as you can be with the personal injury attorney. They need the information to make a generous claim on your behalf.
You Deserve Compensation from the Negligent Driver and Other Potential Defendants
You may be able to seek compensation from the other driver if they were at fault for your car accident and injuries. Distracted driving, fatigued driving, reckless driving, and driving under the influence are common causes of accidents. You may be able to recover the cost of damages if the driver’s negligence resulted in the car accident.
You may be able to recover damages for things like medical costs, loss of current and future income, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. It’s crucial to understand that California laws may not be the same as the laws in your home state. This may impact what you can recover and how much you can recover. With that said, it’s prudent to always work with a car accident attorney based in the state where the car accident takes place.
Our Southern California Car Accident Lawyers are Here to Give You the Best Legal Advice and Support. Call Today
If you or someone you love were injured in a car accident while on a vacation, the experienced attorneys at Garmo & Garmo, LLP can take the necessary steps to protect your legal interests and secure maximum compensation. Our resourceful attorneys have decades of experience in helping car accident victims hold negligent parties responsible. Schedule your free case review with our lawyers today. Call us at 619-441-2500 or contact us online.
