According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 3,081 California traffic crash fatalities in 2009, which is 353 less traffic fatalities than in 2008.
Nationwide, the NHTSA says that there were 33,808 motor vehicle traffic crash fatalities in 2009–a 9.7% decline from the 37,423 traffic deaths in 2008. This the lowest number of traffic deaths since 1950 when 33,186 people reportedly died.
While it is good news that the numbers are going down, there is still a chance that you could be involved in a California car accident. If this were to happen to you, do you know what to do? Here are some easy steps to follow if you are in a car accident in California.
1. Call the police, and an ambulance if there is an injury. Never “hit-and-run,” or you will likely end up in jail. The state of California has stiff penalties for hit-and-run. If there is no damage to city property, the police may decline to come out to the accident scene.
2. If the police do come out to the scene, answer their questions as directed, but do not admit guilt. Nor should you admit guilt to the other driver or drivers.
3. Exchange driver’s license and car insurance information with the other driver or drivers. Also, write down their license plate number. Get their phone number as well.
4. Take pictures of all vehicles involved. This is important evidence that you may need down the road. Also, have a trusted mechanic look at the damage and get an estimate. You don’t want to be low-balled by the insurance company.
5. Contact a California car accident attorney before you open a claim with the insurance company. Why? Whatever statements you make to an insurance company could be used against you. Remember insurance companies have attorneys working for them, and you’re entitled to a car accident lawyer to help you secure your rights.
Our car accident attorneys will never charge you any money upfront for services. We don’t get paid, unless you get money from the insurance company. No money upfront, and no hourly fees. Call 877-702-7274 today and speak to an experienced car accident attorney today!
