The proliferation of the smartphone as a device of communication with capabilities that boggle the imagination has enabled better, faster, cheaper and more efficient contact than ever before. While talking on a handheld phone or texting is strictly prohibited by law in most states, a cell phone can come in handy during the aftermath of a car accident.
What your cell phone can do
After a crash, you can use your cell phone to:
- Call 911 — Even in states where it is strictly prohibited to use a handheld cell phone while driving, you are allowed to use your phone to call for emergency assistance.
- Call a friend — As soon as you are able to, call someone to come and stay with you and help you take care of all the details.
- Take photos — Document the accident by photographing the car damage, the area around the car and any highway signs nearby.
- Interview witnesses — Many devices enable users to record audio messages, and some may even have video-recording capabilities. Take audio or video statements from passengers and bystanders.
- Take your own statement — Describe as much of the accident as you can while it’s still fresh in your mind,
- Call your attorney — As soon as you are able to, contact a car accident attorney.
Cell phone limitations
Recently debunked on the myth-busting site Snopes.com, an interesting urban legend has been circulating in which a young coed, seeing that she is being followed by an unmarked police car, calls *77 or *112 on her cell phone to reach the police department dispatch line. This does not work.
Also worth keeping in mind is that your phone’s battery will run out. Many newer cars come with charging ports for cell phones, but if that isn’t the case for your car, purchase a simple charger that plugs into the lighter jack so you can keep your cell phone charged while you are driving and ready when you need it.
An auto accident attorney can help you sort out the details of your accident and take the steps to assist you with getting compensated for your injuries.
