June 15, 2016 | Car Accidents
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each day in the United States, more than 9 people are killed and more than 1,153 people are injured in crashes that are reported to involve a distracted driver. Distracted driving[1] is driving while doing another activity that takes your attention away from driving. Distracted driving can increase the chance of a motor vehicle crash. There are three main types of Indianapolis distractions:
Visual: Driver taking their eyes off the road;
Manual: Driver their hands off the wheel; and
Cognitive: Individuals taking their mind off of driving.
Distracted driving activities include things like using a cell phone, texting, and eating. Using in-vehicle technologies (such as navigation systems) can also be sources of distraction. While any of these distractions can endanger the driver and others, texting while driving is especially dangerous because it combines all three types of distractions.
How Can Your Smartphone Help After an Accident in Indianapolis?
In the minutes following an automobile accident, it can be difficult to think clearly or decide what steps to take first. But properly documenting what happened and who was involved in the collision is critical in order to protect your rights. In order to make sure that you document all of the necessary information, you likely have all that you need already; your smartphone. Here are some suggestions for what you can do after being involved in an automobile accident:
Debris: Take photographs of any debris or other material that is on the road. Be sure to include a photograph of where the debris is located in relation to your vehicle as well as any other vehicle at the scene of the accident.
Damage: Take photographs of any damage that was done to your vehicle as well as any other vehicle at the scene of the accident. Try to take some pictures of the entire scene with all of the vehicles included if you are able to do so in a safe manner and to take pictures from different angles. It may also be important to take photographs that show the location of any vehicles in connection with any road signs, stop lights and the like. If the air bags deployed, this should also be documented by taking photos.
Place Important Calls: Take some time to enter contacts into your phone so they are readily available after an accident. Input the phone number for local non-emergencies and the number of your insurance company’s claims department. If you have not already done so, create a new contact named “in case of emergency” or “ICE.” If you are seriously injured, this is the number that emergency personnel will look for to find the friend or family member that you wish to be contacted.
Accident Checklists: Consumer Reports
[2] recommends several smartphone apps to be used as a checklist after an accident. You may also be able to receive a recommendation for an app from your insurance company or perhaps even an app from their company.
Exchange Information: One easy way to capture and find information later regarding the other driver and any witnesses is to text or email yourself the information. You can also have other drivers and witnesses call your number so that you can immediately add their contact information to your phone’s address book.
Indianapolis Automobile Accident Lawyers
If you are involved in an automobile accident, you may be able to use your smartphone to take important photographs and to collect necessary information. After you have contacted the local authorities and your insurance company, it is important to speak to an Indianapolis car accident attorney. If you, or someone you love, has been involved in an automobile accident, an Indianapolis auto collision attorney can determine if anyone who caused or contributed toward those injuries may be liable for your losses. Lawyer Merry Fountain is an experienced auto accident attorney who is ready to help you today by meeting in her office or, if you are not able to travel, by meeting in your home. Call Merry Fountain anytime at 1-888-242-HURT (4878) for a free consultation.
References
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/distracted_driving/