• BE CALM  Stay calm and alert. Accidents are unexpected and can generate powerful emotions. Remaining calm and clear-headed will allow you to more objectively take positive actions. Try to be polite and cordial. Do not become hostile to the others who may be involved.
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• Call 911 for the police and medical care Always call the police or other responsible authorities. Always request medical assistance for those injured. Always report your injuries no matter how slight. Seek prompt medical attention.
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• DO NOT DISCUSS THE ACCIDENT  Do not take blame for the accident. Exchange information required by law but do not make any other statements. Cooperate with the authorities but try not to make any damaging comments. Anything you say can be used against you. Remember that you have a right to talk with a lawyer before making any statements.
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• PRESERVE THE SCENE The scene of an accident is the place where the injury occurred. It includes the actual physical location plus all items, articles, equipment, products, vehicles, or anything else that can help explain the cause or consequences of the accident. Preserve any information that helps explain the cause or consequences of the accident. If possible, take immediate photographs or a video.
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• Gather and record information Get the names, addresses and telephone numbers of all witnesses. Many witnesses of accidents leave without giving any information. Do not rely solely on the investigating officials to obtain this information.  Obtain the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of anyone you come in contact with. Keep your notes in a safe place.
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• PRESERVE ALL EVIDENCE Evidence includes all tangible and intangible items or information pertaining to the accident. It includes, for example, witness statements, cars, machines, items, clothing, photographs, videos, medical records, loss wages and bills. Keep all evidence in a secure location. Do not destroy or discard anything.  Do not give authority to anyone to remove, obtain, possess, or destroy anything.
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• YOUR INSURANCE COMPANIES Report the accident to your company. Failure to do so could result in a loss of coverage. It is prudent however to talk to an attorney first. Remember the insurance company's interest is not the same as yours. When an accident happens, they are a business, and you are an expense.
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• DO NOT GIVE A STATEMENT TO THE OTHER INSURANCE COMPANY The biggest mistake people make is talking to the other insurance company. Trained adjustors or attorneys always represent insurance companies. Remember your interest is not their interest. You are their expense. They want to get out of a claim as quickly and as cheaply as possible. Contrary to many marketing efforts, they do not care about you. Protect yourself. Do not give them a verbal or recorded statement. Do not sign anything for them. You are not required to talk to the other insurance company. Call us first.
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• INJURIES AND DAMAGES You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Awarding monetary damages is the law's method of helping those wrongfully injured. For example, you may have the right to recover compensation for medical and hospital care, pain and suffering, loss of quality of life, temporary disability, permanent disability, disfigurement, vocational retraining, loss of income, and damages to property. Be sure to document all your injuries. See also our Glossary.
   

• CONTACT US FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Our firm handles all types of accidents. For the individual attention you deserve and a full explanation of your rights, call Larry King. The firm will handle every aspect of your case in a thorough and professional manner. Combining years of knowledge and experience with the latest in technology, the firm takes special pride in aggressively representing injured persons. Dial 757-595-8100,  I-N-J-U-R-E-D, e-mail us at info@larrykinglaw.com or use the following Personal Injury Contact Form.

See also our Glossary,  Audio Library,  Accidents Category Guide,   Accident-Injury List and FAQ sections.