Would you know what to do if you were involved in a Mississippi car accident? Many people have never been in a serious car accident and would prefer not to consider the possibility. However, a driver who ignores the possibility of being involved in a serious motor vehicle accident has a false sense of security. Even if you do everything perfectly and exercise extreme caution whenever you are behind the wheel, you can still be involved in a serious car accident resulting from another person or entities negligence.
Some common causes of automobile accidents in Mississippi include reckless driving, speeding, DUI, talking or texting on a cell phone, mechanical defects, road conditions and adverse weather. Although a conscientious and responsible driver can reduce his or her risk of being involved in a serious car accident, there are circumstances beyond one’s control that can result in serious injury in an auto accident. If you are prepared for a car accident, it can have a significant impact on your ability to obtain compensation for your injuries. We have provided some basic guidelines for being prepared for a Mississippi car accident, which can help you protect your right to compensation if you suffer serious injury or lose a loved one.
Three Things Every Driver Should Keep in Their Car at All Times
- Disposable Camera: This very inexpensive item can be invaluable if you are involved in a car accident. It can be used to take pictures that may preserve critical evidence regarding the accident scene, damage to the vehicles, the surrounding area and any visible signs of injury. It is advisable to take pictures from every conceivable angle because this will help an accident reconstruction expert understand and explain the cause of the accident as well as determine potential liable parties.
- Notepad: If you are involved in an accident, you should take notes on information provided by witnesses and record the insurance information from the other driver. It is also important to take notes on your recollection regarding how the accident occurred. Many people are shaken and emotional immediately following a car accident so it can be hard to remember the details later if you do not take notes.
- Insurance information: You will need to provide this to the police as proof of insurance and to the other driver when exchanging information following a serious car accident. It is important to ensure that this information is current and your insurance policy has not lapsed. If you are involved in a serious car accident and do not have insurance in place, it can have serious adverse consequences if you are involved in a motor vehicle accident.
If you are suddenly involved in a car accident you should immediately take the following steps:
- Immediately call 911
- Check to see if anyone is injured and assist where possible
- Exchange information with the other driver including name, address, telephone number and name of insurance company
- Cooperate with the police
- Talk to witnesses and write down their names and addresses along with any information concerning the accident while it is still fresh in the witness memory
- Do not make any statements admitting liability or responsibility
- Call your insurance company and give them a detailed report
- See a doctor even if you feel like you are uninjured as not all car injuries are apparent right away
- Get a copy of the police report
After the accident has taken place and you have received the police report, you should contact an experienced Mississippi accident attorney. The initial consultation will not cost you anything, and the information you will receive will be priceless, especially if you suffered injuries. An experienced Mississippi car accident attorney will gather and preserve evidence and deal with any insurance companies. Insurance companies will do their best to get you to settle quickly without the assistance of an attorney. This will only benefit the insurance company and not you because it will typically mean settling an auto accident injury claim before you are aware of the full extent of your injuries or have obtained legal advice. If you have been seriously injured or have lost a loved one in a Mississippi car accident, you should call our Mississippi accident lawyers.
Barrett Law, PLLC will take every step possible to help you obtain maximum recovery as compensation for your lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, diminished enjoyment of life and other damages resulting from the Mississippi car accident. You have the right to receive the proper compensation and benefits you deserve. We have been representing those throughout Mississippi involved in car accidents for over 75 years so contact us immediately at (662) 834-2376 to learn how we can help.