Tessmer Tips 2012 for March 5th through March 16th are focused on Auto Accidents:
Day 1:
Eventually, nearly everyone will be involved in some type of auto accident. Accidents are time consuming, annoying and can be deadly. Increase your odds by leaving more space between you and the vehicle in front of you, stay within the speed limit, save calls and texts for when you are parked and stay out of the fast lane unless you are passing!
Day 2:
If you are involved in an accident, stop as close to the place of impact as possible without obstructing traffic. Give aid to the injured, protect the scene, call police and gather information. Be sure to notify your insurance agent as soon as possible after an accident. (And stay out of the fast lane unless you are passing!)
Day 3:
Always be aware of your location. If you are in an accident, being able to communicate your location to dispatchers will help first responders reach your location faster. (And remember, the left lane of the highway is for passing.)
Day 4:
If you are in an accident, always call the police. A police report will help with insurance and liability decisions. If the accident occurs on private property, such as a parking lot, the officer will only hand out “blue form” reports for both drivers to fill out and send in. Blue form reports are important because you are able to explain your side of the story. Also, make sure to note the officer’s name and badge number and what agency he/she works with so that you can easily order the report.
Day 5:
If you are in an accident, DO NOT admit fault. Exchange information with the other driver(s) and give the facts to the police officer. Things you say can be used against you if there is any controversy over the accident.
Day 6:
If you have the unfortunate luck of getting in an auto accident, be sure to exchange information with the other driver(s). This means the names, addresses, phone numbers of any witnesses and drivers. It is also appropriate to get the driver’s license number and insurance policy number for any other drivers involved. If you have the capability, snap a picture of the insurance card and driver’s license while you are taking additional pictures of the damages to the vehicles, the accident scene and the license plate of all vehicles involved. You can never have too many pictures … VIN number of other car …. Photo of other driver ….
Day 7:
If you are in an accident and receive a ticket, pleading guilty can destroy your claim for damages to your vehicle. Consult with your insurance agent or attorney before you plead guilty to any traffic offense. Often, you can get deferred adjudication for your offense (with nothing on your driving record after 90 days of clean driving) for about the same as the cost of the ticket! (and remember, the left lane is for passing….)
Day 8:
If you are in an accident, both you and your passengers should consider seeing a doctor. The doctor may recognize injuries that might not surface until days later. Do not settle claims from the accident until your doctor has advised you about the extent of your injuries. Even then, consider seeking legal advice prior to settlement.
Day 9:
If you are sued because of an auto accident, your insurance company will provide a defense attorney for you. Be sure to notify your insurance company as soon as you receive notice of any lawsuit!
Day 10:
If you are injured in an auto accident, you will need help from a professional to receive the best settlement from the bad guy’s insurance company. Please consider calling Tessmer Law Firm, PLLC at 210-368-9708 if you need our help or have any questions.