The moments following a car wreck can be chaotic, to say the least. Even if you are not severely hurt, a car accident can throw you off your balance. If the accident is attributable to someone else’s negligent actions, you may be eligible for financial restitution as provided for by Oklahoma’s negligence laws.
However, you need to understand that keeping your cool can mean the difference between a strong claim and a shaky one. To have a watertight case, it is important that you take the following steps before leaving the accident scene.
Call the police to the scene
Most people do not realize it, but calling the police to the scene following an accident is never optional per se. Per Oklahoma car accident reporting laws, you are required to call the police to the scene when the accident results in injuries or death.
The sooner you call the police to the scene, the sooner they will take control of the situation, investigate the accident, interview eyewitnesses and compile an accurate report on the circumstances that lead to the accident. This will also help keep you and everyone involved in the accident safe while at the scene.
Gather your evidence
If you can move around, be sure to obtain as much evidence as you can. With your cell phone, take photos of the accident scene, the damages to the vehicles from multiple angles as well as road and weather conditions at the time of the accident. If there are any traffic signs around, be sure to take photos of these too.
Alongside the photos of the accident scene, be sure to document the following:
- The other driver’s contact information
- Eyewitness statements
- Details of the accident scene
You can never be prepared for a car crash. Unfortunately, numerous car accidents happen on Oklahoma roads every day. Knowing your legal obligations following a car accident that is not your fault can help you build a strong case and hold the liable party accountable.