Car accidents happen so often. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over six million car accidents occur each year in the U.S. After an accident, whether a serious collision or just a small fender bender, the victim is left scared and confused. Implement the following strategy immediately after an accident:
What To Do After a Car Accident
Document the Accident Scene
Taking information from the accident scene helps you get the relevant information. However, do not move objects or vehicles unless for safety purposes. Take many photos of the accident scene from different angles. In addition, write down all the relevant details. Car accidents lawyers will require the information when filling in a personal injury claim.
Go to a Safe Location
The major concern after an accident should be your safety and others. Moving away from the accident scene prevents further accidents. Also, clearing the scene of an accident gives way to emergency responders such as medics and firefighters. Avoid blocking the traffic flow by moving to safe ground.
Check for Injuries
This helps you assess your well-being and that of others involved. Check your body for visible signs of injury, and pay attention to discomfort or any pain. In addition, check the other passengers and the occupants of the other vehicle. While cuts, bleeding, and bruises can be visible, remember that you may not diagnose internal trauma unless you seek medical attention. Be mindful of dizziness and difficulty breathing because they indicate something is wrong.
Get the Other Driver’s Information
Getting the other driver’s contact information is helpful for the legal process. Once the environment is safe, approach the driver calmly and request their contact information, i.e., full name, address, phone number, vehicle, and insurance details. You can also get other witnesses’ details.
Call for Help
You need the police’s intervention due to documentation. At the accident scene, they’ll create an official accident report. Also, in most states, it’s a legal requirement to report accidents to the police. A police report is also essential when dealing with insurance companies, and they also intervene if the other party becomes uncooperative.
Notify Your Insurer
Always inform the insurance company after an accident to allow them to start an investigation and fulfill their contractual obligations. It’s a policy requirement to report an accident. Also, reporting the accident protects you against future claims from other parties involved.
Consult a Lawyer
Contact a car accident attorney if you’re interested in filing a claim against the individual who caused the accident. An experienced lawyer will help you understand your legal rights and options. Get the best car accident lawyers to enjoy the following benefits:
• A qualified lawyer will help you maximize your compensation.
• Lawyers will negotiate with the insurance company. After an accident, some insurance companies try to offer the affected person a settlement, which may not be sufficient to cover all the costs.
• An attorney will also help you manage deadlines and paperwork. A lawyer will collect medical records, fill out the claim forms, and submit them within the stipulated time.
• Lawyers have the expertise to gather evidence concerning the accident by obtaining witness statements, consulting accident experts, and any other relevant information.
• If your case goes to court, you need a lawyer to represent you before the judge and jury and argue on your behalf.
With the right information on what to do after an accident, it’s easier to stay calm and do the right thing. Your safety comes first. Go to a safer location and check for injuries. If your health status allows, document the scene of the accident and gather any information related to the accident. This will be helpful while filing for a compensation claim.
