When you get behind the wheel to drive in Colorado or ride as a passenger in someone’s car, you understand that there’s a risk that you could suffer injury in a collision. However, as a driver or passenger, you have a right to reasonably expect that all nearby motorists will adhere to traffic laws and safety regulations. Sadly, driver negligence is a common cause of accidents that result in injury.
If you’re involved in a collision, especially as a driver, there are certain pieces of information you’ll want to make sure you obtain before leaving the scene. Injuries that are severe might mean that you’re unable to gather information at the time, in which case someone could do it for you, or you could do it later when you’re able.
Other driver’s insurance information is important after a collision
The most important bits of information you can obtain after being involved in a crash are the name and phone number of the carrier through which the other driver has auto insurance. Navigating the claims system can be complicated and frustrating. The more information you can obtain at the scene of the crash, the less stressful the later process might be.
Always request the other driver’s contact info
Especially if you believe the other driver involved in a collision acted with negligence or recklessness to cause the crash, you’ll want to request his or her name and personal contact information, as well. What you don’t want is to become involved in a confrontation; so, if the person refuses to give you information, it’s always best to let the police handle it.
Cellphones come in handy at an accident scene
Not only can you or someone with you use a cell phone to dial 911 for emergency support after a collision, you can also use a cell phone to gather important evidence at the scene of a crash. Most cell phones have camera devices installed on them. It’s a good idea to take pictures of the crash scene, particularly any damage done to your car.
Try to speak with witnesses
At the moment that another vehicle collided with yours, there may have been pedestrians or other people nearby who saw the crash take place. If so, it is helpful to get their names and phone numbers, which may come in handy later on.
Who was the responding police officer?
The fifth piece of information that’s helpful to you after having been involved in a Colorado collision is the name, badge number and phone number of the police officer who responded to the scene. He or she will file a report that also has an identification number; it’s a good idea to request the report number, as well.
Building a strong support network from the start during recovery
Suffering injury in a motor vehicle collision is not just physically painful, it is also emotionally traumatic. In the days and weeks that follow a crash, it’s important to closely monitor your condition and to report any new symptoms that develop. In addition to a medical team, your close friends and loved ones may play key roles in helping you to recover.
You may also have many legal issues to resolve, especially if an insurance agency tries to deny a claim. Many people seek financial recovery for their losses against those whose negligence caused their injuries. Speaking with someone well-versed in personal injury law is helpful in such cases.
