What to Know About Texting and Driving Accidents in California

Car accidents are common occurrences, and they often result in serious injuries. Today, texting and driving is the most common cause of car accidents in the United States. In fact, the Federal Communication Commission has stated that texting and driving is six times more likely to cause a car accident than drunk driving. Read on to learn more.

What Do I Do After an Accident?

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Reach out to a personal injury attorney. A skilled attorney may be able to collect further evidence, including police reports, phone records, and security footage.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

If you wish to take legal action after an accident, you will have to file your claim within a certain amount of time. This deadline is known as a statute of limitations. In California, the statute of limitations for a personal injury accident is generally two years. Be sure to contact a personal injury attorney in order to avoid missing any important deadlines.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to another party’s negligence, contact our firm today to speak with a dedicated personal injury attorney. We are here to advocate for you and help you fight to recover the compensation you deserve.

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.