When a vehicle accident occurs, individuals often panic, unsure of what to do during a chaotic situation. Yes, the aftermath of a vehicle accident can be confusing, even a crash that occurs in a parking lot. However, there are various steps that individuals can take to help ensure that they care for themselves and move towards a path of securing maximum compensation for their losses. Here, we want to discuss the six steps you can take after being involved in the parking lot accident in Phoenix, Arizona.
It is important to check for injuries before anything else happens at the scene of a parking lot vehicle accident. Often, injuries are not apparent right away. It is better to be safe than sorry and seek medical care promptly if any injuries are suspected. Not only does this ensure the well-being of those who may be harmed, but it also establishes a solid link between the crash and the injuries.
Before any vehicles are moved from their location, it is important to get pictures of the incident. You can use a cell phone or any other type of camera to take photographs of the vehicle positions, damage, debris, any skid marks, and the surrounding parking lot. Photographs can paint a fairly clear picture of what happened for an insurance claims adjuster or a personal injury.
After checking for injuries, the police need to be called so they can fill out the incident report. Even if the incident is relatively minor and no one claims an injury, a full report is going to be needed for the insurance claim. However, the police may choose not to come to the scene of a parking lot crash if no one is injured. In these cases, it is important to gather as much information as possible so that you can make a report to your insurance carrier.
You need to gather as much information as possible at the scene of the crash related to the vehicles and any other individuals involved. This information includes:
Insurance carriers have a fairly strict reporting deadline in Arizona. Typically, insurance carriers require that a vehicle accident be reported within a day or two after the incident occurs. It is best to report the accident the same day it occurs, if possible. In most cases, insurance carriers have online portals or phone apps where these incidents can be recorded initially.
If you have been involved in a parking lot accident in Phoenix, Arizona, you may need to speak to a Phoenix parking lot accident attorney for help with your case. This is particularly true if liability for the incident is not clear or if the insurance carrier for the other party denies compensation.
John Torgenson is a highly experienced personal injury lawyer with over 20 years of practice in Arizona. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah and his Juris Doctor from Notre Dame. John has a proven track record of securing substantial verdicts and settlements, including an $8.25 million recovery for a gunshot injury victim. His expertise has earned him AVVO ratings and recognition as a Super Lawyer.
John is also a sought-after lecturer on personal injury law, sharing his extensive knowledge with peers and aspiring attorneys. Beyond his legal practice, John is an avid golfer and actively supports organizations like the Military Assistance Mission, Arizona School for the Arts, Page Balloon Regatta, University of Arizona Foundation, Junior Achievement of Arizona, and the Tim Huff Pro Bono Golf Classic.
Passionate about advocating for injury victims, John dedicates his career to battling insurance companies and corporate interests, ensuring that the rights of those who are hurt are vigorously defended.
