Confusion is common in the immediate aftermath of a North Dakota car collision, even if there are no injuries that result from the crash. This confusion, although normal, can cause a sort of “paralysis” in which you and/or your loved one fails to take any action. Worse, the confusion can cause you to make a poor decision such as fleeing the scene of the wreck. Failing to take appropriate action following a car wreck can not only lead to criminal charges, it can negatively affect your ability to obtain compensation for your injuries.
Steps to Take After Your Wreck
Of course, your first concern in the aftermath of a car wreck is your health and the health and safety of your loved ones and passengers. Summon emergency medical assistance if you suspect someone has been injured. If necessary and if you can do so without causing further injury, move yourself or your loved ones/passengers to a safe location away from traffic, leaking fuel, and/or other hazards. Then:
- Take photographs of the scene of the accident, including the roadway, the resting position of the cars, road signs or traffic control devices, the damage to the vehicles, and any injuries you or your loved one may have. Although North Dakota is a no-fault insurance state, these photographs may be important in the event your injuries or losses are serious and you need to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.
- After your medical concerns have been addressed and you have left the scene, take some time to write down your recollection of events, including as many details leading up to the crash as possible. It is important to do this as soon as you can following the crash, as your memory is likely to deteriorate over time. It can be months, even years, before you may be able to file a car crash lawsuit. By this time, your memory may have faded and important details that can make or break your claim may be forgotten.
Above all, the steps you take following an injury car crash should be aimed at preserving important information and witnesses so that they are available for use in the event it becomes necessary to file a lawsuit.
Contact Your North Dakota Car Wreck Law Firm
Tatum O’Brien and Tim O’Keeffe of the North Dakota personal injury law firm O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Attorneys are available to help you and your family move forward and take decisive, positive actions following a car crash. The sooner you contact us, the sooner you may be able to obtain the compensation you need in order to address your medical expenses and other financial losses. Although North Dakota is a no-fault insurance state, O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Attorneys can help determine if you may be able to pursue a claim for compensation from the at-fault party. Call the firm today for assistance at (701) 235-8000 or (877) 235-8002.
Image courtesy of fourbyfourblazer/Flickr
