Being involved in a car accident can be a terrifying and costly experience, whether you are at fault or not. Contacting a lawyer is very important because these officials are there to intercede on your behalf and ensure you are being treated just and fairly. Along with contacting a lawyer following an accident, here are some dos and don'ts for during and after an automobile accident:

It is very important not leave the scene of the accident. Leaving the scene of an automobile accident is against the law and the consequence carries heavy fines and jail time. The only time it is acceptable to leave the scene of the accident is after the police have finished speaking with you, the other driver, and the witnesses on the scene.

Do contact a friend or family member who is willing to come to the scene of the accident. To protect yourself and the integrity of the other driver(s) have the friend or family member bring along a video camera to document the damage to both vehicles at the time of the accident. The video evidence can also be used by the insurance companies and the lawyers in determining things like repair costs and damages.

Do collect the names, license plate number, driver license number, addresses, and phone numbers of everyone involved in the accident, including the names of witnesses and the police officers who are documenting the details about the case. Asking the officers on the scene for business cards or badge numbers is also a great idea. Also collect the auto insurance information from the other driver and make sure to give the driver your insurance information as well.

Do not admit to anyone on the scene of the accident that your actions caused the accident. Until the officer is finished gathering the information from the other driver(s) and witnesses, there will be no way to determine who is actually at fault.

If you notice any abnormal bleeding, dizziness, back or chest pain, or severe headache after you have been involved in a car accident, go to your nearest emergency room immediately. Sometimes, after a car accident, symptoms can take anywhere from 24-48 hours to set in and you need to be prepared for any situation. Do inform the attending physician that you were involved in a car accident within the last day or two and gather the names of the doctors and nurses who provided care for you during your hospital visit. Request copies of any medications that were given, prescriptions, at home care, and follow up care.

Have all of the information available for your accident lawyer during the first meeting and they will handle the rest.