Barber & Sims
Alaska Auto Accidents Lawyers Fighting for Your Rights

Auto accidents can happen to anyone at any time, regardless of how defensive someone may be behind the wheel.  If you or someone you love has been harmed in such an incident, you have legal rights and options that need to be explored, as the law dictates that those wrongfully injured in auto accidents have the opportunity to seek justifiable recovery for the damages and losses they've incurred as a result.

Below you'll find information regarding relevant Alaska auto accident statistics, what to do in the aftermath of an auto accident and finally how you should proceed if you or a loved one has been injured or worse due to the negligent or reckless driving of someone else anywhere in Alaska.

Alaska Auto Accident Statistics

During the calendar year 2007, there were more than 10,000 auto accidents in Alaska as recorded by the state government.  This number only includes those accidents that were reported.  The number also appears to be quite constant when looking at previous years, which means that almost 30 people are involved in an accident every day somewhere in Alaska.

In addition to the total number of crashes, a high percentage of them resulted in at least one injury.  More than 3,000 people were injured in auto accidents in Alaska during the same time period, with the severity of these injuries ranging from minor to serious.  Finally, 82 people were killed in accidents in Alaska during 2007.

What to Do after an Alaska Auto Accident

If you have been involved in an auto accident and you're able to move safely, the first thing you need to do is get to safety, which usually means moving to the side of the road.  When you and your passengers are safe, you need to contact the authorities.  Do not assume someone else will do so.

After you've contacted the police and provided them with your location, approach the other driver and offer to exchange contact and insurance information if you think it's safe to do so.  As you make this exchange, do not under any circumstances discuss the particulars of the accident.  Even if you're directly challenged to do so, politely answer that you'd prefer to give your statement to the police when they arrive.  

When the police do arrive, offer a statement of what you believe happened, but do not offer any arguments or opinions in your statement.  Simply state the facts in a calm and rational manner and allow the police to interview other witnesses and the other driver.  Now is not the time to argue your case.

Finally, after you've left the scene, seek medical attention, even if you feel that your injuries are minor in nature.  There are serious injuries that could arise that do not feel that way immediately, and you need to be safe rather than sorry.  Ultimately, you need to contact the Alaska auto accident attorneys at Barber & Sims to schedule a free initial consultation so that you can obtain the information you need regarding your legal rights and options.