Check Yourself and Others for Injuries
As soon as an accident occurs, it is crucial to check yourself, your passengers, and others involved for any injuries. You need to call 911 and let dispatchers know where the crash occurred and whether or not you think there are injuries that need treatment from EMS personnel. Even if you do not think you have sustained a severe injury, we encourage you to go to the hospital or doctor for a complete evaluation as soon as possible.
Exchange Information at the Scene of the Incident
You will need to exchange information with all other parties involved in the crash. The most important information you need to get from other drivers involved includes their name, address, phone number, and insurance policy information. You should also write down their license plate number.
If any other party involved in the crash becomes hostile at the scene, wait for law enforcement officials to arrive and let them gather the information needed. Do not make any small talk with other individuals. Do not talk about the crash and do not accept any fault.
Gather Evidence and Take Notes
We encourage you to get out your phone or another type of camera and start taking pictures or videos of the scene. Make sure that you photograph vehicle damage, injuries, causes of the crash, any debris or skid marks, as well as traffic and weather conditions. If you have a place you can take notes, write down anything you remember about the incident, and any other information that you think is relevant. Also, check the area for any surveillance cameras on nearby businesses or homes.
Contact the Rental Company
You need to contact the rental company as soon as possible. You should be able to find their accident reporting requirements and emergency number located on the rental agreement or somewhere inside of the glove box. Ask the rental company how to proceed in this scenario. Again, do not accept fault, and let them know that you will be contacting your insurance carrier and an attorney.
Contact Your Personal Insurance Carrier
You will need to call your personal insurance carrier as soon as possible. Typically, individuals rely on their own insurance coverage to serve as their primary coverage source when they rent a vehicle. No matter who caused the incident, let your insurance carrier know what happened, the name of the rental carrier, and the contact information of other drivers involved.
Call a Skilled Attorney
We encourage you to reach out to a skilled Albuquerque car accident attorney promptly. An attorney can handle investigating the incident, communicating with the rental carrier and all insurance carriers involved, and negotiating to recover fair compensation for your injuries and property damage expenses.
