When you get in the passenger seat of a car, you trust that the driver will use good judgment and get you to your destination safely. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Sometimes, a driver acts negligently and injures his or her passenger in the process. Read on for more information regarding car accidents in California and what to do if you sustain injuries as a passenger.
Common Causes of Car Accidents:
Car accidents are incredibly common. Sometimes, they are the result of things like poor road conditions, inclement weather, or faulty car parts. But, most accidents can be traced back to driver negligence. The most common examples of negligence include:
- Texting while driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Making illegal turns
- Driving while fatigued
- Tailgating
- Dangerous lane changes
- Ignoring traffic lights or signs
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
Fulfilling the Burden of Proof
If you are injured due to another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensation. But, when it comes to a personal injury case, you will have to prove that this negligence occurred. In order to do this, you should take the following steps after an accident:
- Call 911. The police can file an accident report stating who was driving at the time of the accident, how it occurred, and more. They can also conduct chemical tests and obtain witness statements.
- Seek medical attention. It is important to go to the hospital, your doctor, or an urgent care facility. This will help ensure that your injuries are treated properly, while simultaneously providing you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries.
- Document the scene. Before leaving, it is important to take photos and videos at the scene of the accident. Make sure to document any damage done to the cars and/or property involved. Make sure to obtain your own photos, separate from the driver.
- Obtain witness contacts. If someone saw your accident occur, ask for his or her contact information. You and the driver may have differing opinions about how the accident happened. A witness may be able to corroborate your version of events.
- Reach out to a personal injury attorney. A skilled attorney may be able to collect further evidence, including police reports and security footage.
- File your personal injury claim on time. In California, you will generally have two years to file your claim.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact our firm today to discuss your case with an experienced and dedicated attorney.
CONTACT OUR FIRM
When someone is wrongly injured in an accident, they often require financial compensation to heal. That’s where we come in. Contact the Law Offices of Brian J. O’Grady today to learn more about what our firm can do for you.
