Whether you have been involved in a minor fender-bender or a serious car accident involving multiple vehicles and injuries, it is imperative to call law enforcement to come to the scene of the collision. A police officer can be an important source of assistance and information, especially if it is your first accident and/or you are unfamiliar with what steps to take following a crash.
Here are several reasons why you must always contact the police after a car accident:
- Immediate medical attention – If you suffer a serious injury, the first thing you need is medical care right away. Law enforcement is likely to arrive on the scene first, and they will typically administer basic medical treatment for anyone with visible injuries. In addition, the police can help an ambulance park by clearing out an area and help the EMTs move injured individuals to the ambulance.
- Accident scene protection – Law enforcement will block off the area surrounding a serious collision to ensure it is free of traffic while an investigation is underway. Not only does it create a safe environment for other drivers and witnesses on the scene, but also for the police to investigate the situation.
- Collision investigation – Once the scene of the accident has been blocked off, law enforcement will then investigate and determine how the accident happened. Police may gather information from the parties involved in the crash, collect witness accounts, and determine whether or not one of the drivers is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Police report – The most important reason to contact the police after a car accident is because of the report they must prepare. This document is considered one of the most important pieces of evidence in a claim since it is an objective report made by a third party. The police report includes an accident and injury assessment, which often determines who is at fault, as well as contact and insurance information from all parties involved.
If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a negligent driver in Fort Worth, contact our skilled legal team at the Law Office of James M. Stanley and request a free consultation today.