A car crash in Bakersfield can be a sudden and unexpected event, leaving you feeling uncertain about what steps to take next. This guide aims to provide clear, actionable advice on how to handle the situation, protect your rights, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Let’s talk about the key actions to take immediately after a road accident and beyond.
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Immediate Actions After a Vehicle Crash in California
Ensure Everyone’s Safety
First and foremost, check for injuries among all involved parties: driver, passenger, pedestrian (if any). If possible, get out of the highway and move to a safe location away from traffic. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and get medical assistance if needed. Prompt medical attention is crucial, even if injuries seem minor.
Contact Law Enforcement
Report the accident to the police. They will document the scene and create an official traffic collision report, which will be invaluable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. Make sure to obtain a copy of this report and the responding officer’s contact information.
Exchange Information
Gather essential details from all drivers involved, including names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle registration numbers. If there are any eyewitnesses, collect their contact details as well, as their statements can support your case.
Document the Scene
Use your phone to take photos and videos of the scene where the accident occurred, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries. This documentation can serve as critical evidence when dealing with insurance companies or legal proceedings.
Seeking Medical Care Matters
Importance of a Medical Evaluation
Even if you feel fine, some injuries might not be immediately obvious. A thorough medical evaluation ensures that any injuries are diagnosed and treated promptly. Medical records linking your injuries to the accident are vital when it’s time to file an accident claim.
Follow-Up Care
Follow your doctor’s recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments. Keep detailed records of your treatments, prescriptions, and any related expenses. Especially if you had severe injuries or figured in a violent crash, all efforts toward recovery and rehabilitation should be documented.
Car Crash Injury in Kern County… Steps to Protect Your Rights
Consult a Car Accident Attorney
To ensure that you don’t miss any deadlines and file the right paperwork, consult an experienced Bakersfield car accident attorney. The legal professionals at RTM Law Firm in Bakersfield can guide you through the process and see that no stone is left unturned. You must call a lawyer right after your accident before talking to insurers.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Through your auto accident attorney, report the Bakersfield car crash to your insurance company. Your lawyer will take care of providing them with the necessary details to verify and strengthen your insurance claim. Avoid giving any recorded statements until you’ve consulted with a lawyer. Insurance companies might use your statements to minimize their payout.
Another important thing to note: DO NOT SETTLE ON THE FIRST OFFER. Insurance agencies are not really out of your best interests and will definitely rush to lower the value of your injuries and damages. Your lawyer will be your ally in negotiations.
California’s Comparative Fault Law
Kern County, as with the rest of California, follows a comparative fault system, which means that even if you are partially at fault for the Bakersfield car crash, you can still recover compensation. Your payout will be reduced by your percentage of fault. An auto accident lawyer can help with this complex area of law to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
Compensation Available for a Car Accident in Bakersfield
Victims of a car crash in Bakersfield may be entitled to the following:
- Medical Expenses: Covers hospital bills, medication, rehabilitation, and any future medical needs related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: For the income lost due to the inability to work following the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: For physical pain, emotional distress, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Property Damage: Covers repairs or replacement of your damaged vehicle.
- Wrongful Death: Financial compensation for a fatal car crash.
Statute of Limitations
You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, per California law. You must act within this timeframe because missing the deadline can bar you from recovering compensation. Working with an accident and injury lawyer can make sure that no important dates and filings are overlooked.
Why Work With RTM Law Firm?
Expertise in Bakersfield Car Crash Cases
RTM Law Firm specializes in representing victims of car crashes in Bakersfield. Our attorneys are well-versed in local laws and have a proven track record of securing substantial settlements for clients.
No Upfront Costs
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay a single cent unless we win your case. This allows you to access top-tier legal representation without financial strain.
Recover Compensation for Injury and Property Damage After a Bakersfield Car Crash. Call Our Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash in Bakersfield, don’t hesitate to contact our legal team. RTM Law Firm has experienced car accident injury attorneys in Kern County and all over California.
We are ready to fight for you.
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