In the aftermath of an auto accident, you might be shaken and overwhelmed, but it's important to keep a clear head. Knowing what to do may make the difference between collecting compensation for your damages and shouldering the burden of recovery on your own. The Law Offices of Terrence J. Salerno, an Omaha accident injury attorney with more than 30 years' experience protecting the rights of people injured due to another person's negligence, has some tips for what to do at the scene of an accident:

• Stop your vehicle as soon as possible, and don't leave the scene of an accident. Doing so could expose you to criminal charges and decrease your chances of receiving compensation, even if the accident wasn't your fault.
• Call the police, especially if the crash resulted in injuries. Even if everyone is uninjured, filing a police report immediately will likely make your personal injury case easier. And, take photos before the cars are moved.Since most people carry a cell phone, it is a good idea to snap pictures at the scene. In the event a dispute arises about how the accident occurred, your photos will be very important in supporting your version of how the collision occurred.
• Take notes, and collect information from any witnesses, including their name and phone number along with a short description of what they saw. Your auto injury attorney will use this information to prepare your case for negotiations with the insurance company.
• Be careful what you say, as apologies can sometimes be considered an admission of fault, even if the facts of the case indicate otherwise. Also, avoid making any agreements with the other driver at the scene.  The full extent and severity of any injuries may not be immediately apparent. It is not unusual for someone to feel ok at the scene of the collision when the adrenaline is still high. Injuries often become more apparent in the hours after the collision. And the extent of any property damage may not be fully known until your the car is checked out at the body shop. 

If you've been in an auto accident, visit The Law Offices of Terrence J. Salerno online, or call (402) 502-9002 to schedule a consultation with our experienced auto accident attorneys today.