Automobile accidents are a distressing event and a party to an accident should take certain steps to minimize personal injury and legal liability. First, the parties involved in an accident should assess any personal injuries. The parties should then exchange information. Next, a party should record facts about the accident. It is also important to get contact information from witnesses. An extremely important thing for a party involved in a car accident to remember is that he or she should never admit guilt or talk with the other party’s insurance agent.
The Importance of Police Report or Uniform Crash Report
One of the most important things to do after a car accident is notify the police. The police will come to the accident scene and fill out a form called a uniform crash report. The report is important because it contains information about the car accident that can help you establish your legal claim. The Rhode Island uniform crash report includes information about the location, drivers, passengers, witnesses, the driving conditions, the vehicle type, and diagrams describing vehicle damage. The government uses the report to generate motor vehicle accident statistics. Additionally, such reports are used to identify dangerous intersections and to improve roadways.
An insurance company will use the uniform crash report to assess your claim and it will be useful if your insurance company wants to seek damages or defend you. A lawyer will use the report to gain a better understanding of any legal claim you may have and the report may be used at trial to corroborate your case. Sometimes the police will inaccurately fill out a report. It is important to address any inaccuracies as soon as possible by having your lawyer contact the police department. In addition to the uniform crash report, the Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles requires an accident report form for accidents causing injuries or property damage in excess of $1,000 within 21 days. The form should be mailed into the Department’s Pawtucket office.
Do You Have a RI Car Accident Lawsuit?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, the Rhode Island attorneys at d’Oliveira & Associates want you to know that you may be entitled to compensation. d’Oliveira & Associates has years of experience when it comes to car accident lawsuits, and can help ensure that you receive the legal representation you deserve for your car accident claim. Please contact the law offices of d’Oliveira & Associates at 1-800-992-6867 or fill out a contact form for a free legal consultation.
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
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