You should obtain as much correct and complete information as possible at the accident scene (it will be much more difficult to get vital information later). We have compiled a list of 7 groups of items you should obtain at the accident scene:

1. Driver's name, address, date of birth, telephone number, driver's license number, driver's license expiration date, and insurance company name and phone number.
   
2. Vehicle's make, year, model, license plate number, reg. expiration date, and vehicle identification number.
   
3. Names, addresses, telephone numbers and insurance companies of the other vehicle's legal and registered owners (if the driver is not the owner).
   
4. Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of any passengers in the other vehicle.
   
5. Names, addresses and telephone numbers of witnesses to the accident. Ask them to stay to talk to the CHP or police. If they cannot stay, ask them to explain to you what they saw and if possible write everything down.
   
6. Identify people at the accident scene, even if they will not give you their contact info. If someone saw the accident and leaves the scene, you should make a note of his or her vehicle's license plate number. Law officials can trace the owner's name and address.
   
7. Names and badge numbers of any law officer who came to the accident scene. Ask the officer where and when you can get a copy of the accident report. Make a simple diagram of the accident. Make a diagram of the accident scene on paper, make notes of traffic conditions, weather, time of day, and any objects such as traffic lights and signs that might be in the area. Also if you have a camera, take pictures of the scene. Get a Free Consultation

Fred J. Fleming was admitted to the California State Bar in 1971 and has been practicing personal injury law in California for over 29 years.  

Professional associations include:

• California Trial Lawyers - Recognition of Experience in General Personal Injury and as a Trial Lawyer
  
• Superior Court Arbitrator since 1979
  
• Member, National Organization of Social Security Attorneys
  
• Member, Consumer Attorneys Association of California
  
• Member, Applicants' Attorney Association of California
  
• Member, National Organization of Veteran's Advocates

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