A five car collision occurred this morning around 8:30 am on the westbound side of Highway 50 near the Harbor Boulevard exit. The California Highway Patrol reports that there are major injuries associated with the wreck.
The lanes have been reported as clear and open for several hours now. There is no update yet as to the injuries or the cause of the crash.
What to do after a Sacramento car accident
Call the Authorities. The first thing you’ll want to do is call 911—especially if the collision was severe. Let them know what happened and to send an ambulance.
Get Medical Attention. This is very important. Your health is the biggest concern. Many people will be in a minor rear-end accident and think that they aren’t injured. Some injuries, including whiplash, may not appear for several days. It’s important not only for your health, but for any potential injury claim you seek. If the insurance company doesn’t see you treating for a condition right after an accident, they will say the injury is unrelated and deny your claim. Additionally, if you never see a doctor, you won’t be able to make a claim for pain and suffering damages.
Take Pictures. Of course if you’ve been seriously injured, this won’t be an option. If you’re able to, use your phone to take pictures of how the vehicles ended up before they’re moved and the surrounding scene. Include the cars, license plates, stop signs, trees, obstructions to your vision, and other things around the crash scene. This could prove beneficial down the road if the police report incorrectly attributes fault to you.
Get Names and Contact Information. You’ll want to get the driver’s name, insurance information, and a copy of their driver’s license. We recommend using your phone to take pictures of these so you have them readily accessible. You’ll also want to get the names and contact information of any witnesses. It is common for police reports to take weeks to be finished and this can hold up repairs and claims. If you’re able to provide information to your insurance company immediately, it will help speed along the process of your claim.
Contact Your Insurance Company. Whether the accident was your fault or not, you’ll have to contact your insurance company to notify them of the car wreck.
Contact a Sacramento Car Accident Attorney. Insurance companies have many different tricks they can use to diminish or deny claims. Car accident lawyers know how to spot them and help you maximize your injury claim. Most personal injury attorneys don’t charge for you to meet with them. It’s always a good idea to call around and find someone you feel comfortable with to meet and discuss your options.
Can a personal injury attorney help me?
Yes! We offer free and friendly advice if you’ve been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence. We will go over the facts and circumstances of your case, your damages, missed time from work, and pain and suffering to help determine your options. We always provide an honest assessment of how we view your case.
Please give us a call at (916) 619-5452 or fill out our form online to speak with an attorney today!
