Dallas, Texas, July 20, 2015 – Getting into a car crash can be a traumatic experience that often leaves motorists involved feeling like the carpet has been pulled out from under them. Even so, the actions taken in the moments following impact can prove vital should a personal injury claim arise from the wreck. With that in mind, Dallas personal injury attorney Tim O’Hare offers insights on how motorists should conduct themselves after an accident.

“The very first step motorists should take after a crash is assessing themselves, passengers and other drivers for injury,” says O’Hare. “If they need emergency medical attention, getting it should trump all other actions. Call 911 first if injuries are obvious or suspected.”

Should a motorist be mobile after a crash, however, or if friends or family members arrive on scene and can help, these measures can expedite filing a claim and closing it should the need arise, O’Hare says:

• Documenting driver information – Collecting the names, telephone numbers, driver’s license numbers and insurance information for all other drivers involved is important. Recording the license plate numbers of all involved vehicles is also helpful.
• Recording witness information – O’Hare says it’s also a good idea to jot down contact information and names of any witnesses to the crash.
• Police information – Make sure to also record the names of officers who are sent out to investigate the accident.
• Find out who is handling the towing – If vehicles have to be towed from the scene, this information will prove critical for reclaiming them. It can also be helpful for post-accident photos.

“When it’s possible, gathering information from a crash scene can prove very helpful down the road,” says O’Hare. “Taking photos and jotting down notes can all prove very useful for a successful claim.”

Calling a lawyer for representation is also highly advised, O’Hare adds.

“Even if injuries are relatively minor, a lawyer can make the process of getting fair compensation flow much more smoothly,” O’Hare explains. “Insurance companies and other motorists will have representation on their side and you should, too.”