Important Things to Do if You’re a Passenger in an Auto Accident

If you are a passenger in an auto accident, your priority should be to ensure that you and any other passengers are safe. Once you’ve assessed the situation and ensured that everyone is okay, there are a few things that you should do to protect yourself legally.

We will discuss what steps to take if you are involved in an auto accident as a passenger.

1. Get the Contact and Insurance Information from the Driver of the Car You Were in

This is important for the following two reasons:

• You will want to make sure that the driver is properly insured in case of an accident.
• If there is damage to the car, you will need to contact the driver’s insurance company to file a claim.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company

After the accident, call your insurance company as soon as possible and give them all the details of what happened. They will help you through the process of filing a claim against the other driver’s insurance company. This will also help in getting compensation for any damage that was caused by the accident.

3. Seek Medical Attention if Necessary

If you sustained injuries as a result of the accident, seek medical attention right away. It is important to document any injuries you may have sustained in order to make a claim later on.

4. Keep a Record of the Accident

This includes taking pictures of the scene, getting the contact information of any witnesses, as well as recording the date and time of the accident. All of this information can be helpful if you decide to file a claim against the other driver.

5. Talk to a Lawyer

If you have any questions about your legal rights after an auto accident, it is best to speak with a lawyer. They will be able to advise you on what steps to take next. They may also help you file a lawsuit against the other driver. We at the Brown Law Firm, are the best criminal defense attorneys in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

6. File a Police Report

If the accident is serious, call the police and have them come to the scene. They will create a report that will be helpful if you decide to take legal action.

7. Don’t Admit Fault

It is important to remember that you may not be at fault for the accident, even if it seems that way. Don’t say anything to the other driver or to the police that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt.

8. Get the Contact Information of any Witnesses

If there are witnesses to the accident, get their contact information so that you can have them testify on your behalf if necessary.

9. Don’t Sign Anything Without Talking to a Lawyer

If the other driver or their insurance company offers you a settlement, don’t sign anything until you have spoken to a lawyer. They may be trying to take advantage of you and get you to sign something that is not in your best interest.

10. Keep Track of Any Expenses Related to the Accident

Your insurance company can reimburse the costs incurred. These include:

• Medical bills
• Car repairs 
• Lost wages

11. File a Lawsuit

If you decide to file a lawsuit, you will need to do so within the statute of limitations. This is the time frame in which you are allowed to file a lawsuit. In most states, this is two years from the date of the accident. We at the Brown Law Firm represent those facing criminal charges and those injured in our area and surrounding counties. 

Get Legal Assistance

If you’re involved in an auto accident as a passenger, take the above steps to protect yourself legally and financially. Remember to stay calm and be patient, as filing a claim can be time-consuming.

Once in a while, you will find yourself facing a relentless criminal justice system. The best way to handle it is to get a committed legal advocate by your side to offer the best counsel and representation. 

Contact us at the Brown Law Firm for legal representation in Alaska.