What to Do After a Car Accident in Virginia

Virginia Car Accident Attorneys Representing Newport News & Roanoke

If you are involved in a car accident, the most important thing is to remain calm. You may be disoriented, even if you did not lose consciousness. If anyone involved in your motor vehicle accident is injured, you should call an ambulance. Then, once the dust has settled and everyone has received medical treatment, there are certain things you should make sure you do at the scene.

Car accidents are scary and can be traumatic. At the Virginia law firm of Kalfus & Nachman, our experienced and caring attorneys know this is a difficult time and are dedicated to winning you the money you deserve.

For a free review of your case in the Newport News, Roanoke, or Norfolk area, please call (855) 880-8163 today.

What to Do Following a Motor Vehicle Crash

If someone is injured, your first step is to call 9-1-1 for emergency medical assistance. If there are no injuries, here are some things you should do:

• Contact the police. Officers will take statements and investigate the way each vehicle came to rest to piece together what happened. They will want witness testimony, so if anyone saw the accident, be sure to get their contact information so the police can call them later. Remain at the scene of the accident until the police have come and gone. Make sure you write down the name of the officer who took your report. Also, write down your version of what happened while it is fresh in your mind.
• Don't admit fault. Never admit fault to anyone; not the other party and not the police. However, be sure not to fabricate the truth no matter how embarrassing. If you change your story later, this may hurt your ability to win damages.
• Take notes, and more. If the car accident is minor and there are no injuries, the police may not arrive on the scene. If this is the case, it is your responsibility to document the scene. Take photographs with a camera or cell phone and write a detailed recollection of how the accident occurred. Be sure to photograph any pertinent obstructions, weather conditions, debris or landscape that may have impacted your accident.
• Conduct interviews. Gather the names, addresses, driver's license and insurance information with every other driver. Also, write down the names and contact information of any witnesses and passengers involved.
• Review your insurance policy to see what it covers. Carefully review the “declarations” page, which lists the types and dollar limits of your coverage. Pay close attention to any discounts or special provisions that you have purchased, and make a list of questions for a car accident lawyer.

Emergency Kit to Keep in Your Vehicle

It is a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle in case of an accident. Your kit should contain:

• A pen and paper for taking notes
• A disposable camera to take photos of the vehicles at the scene
• A card with information about medical allergies or conditions that may require special attention if there are serious injuries
• A list of contact numbers for law enforcement agencies
• A flashlight to assess damage at night
• A set of cones, warning triangles or flares to warn other drivers if you cannot move your vehicle quickly off the road

If you have been involved in a car accident, please contact a Virginia car accident attorney at Kalfus & Nachman PC to schedule a free consultation. Our firm serves clients in the Norfolk, Hampton, Newport News, Portsmouth, Roanoke, and Virginia Beach, Virginia areas.