There are 6 million car accidents every year. Life happens, and it could happen to you. Do you know what to do?
Being in a car accident is overwhelming, and you will probably be scared. Do you know what to do? We’ve got you covered.
Keep reading, so you are not overwhelmed with the car crash aftermath. Here are seven steps to take after a car crash.
1. Check for Injuries
Safety comes first. Right after the car accident, do a check to see if anyone is injured. If so, call 911 immediately for help to get an ambulance and police on the scene.
If you or someone else is seriously injured, do not move unless you have to move them away for a hazardous situation. Wait for emergency personnel.
If the accident is minor, you should also call the police. You will need an official accident report for your insurance company.
2. Move to a Safer Place
If possible, get out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights. Some vehicles may not be operational, so you won’t be able to move them. In this case, you and all other parties should move away from the vehicles and go to safety at the side of the road or a sidewalk.
You should move vehicles to the shoulder and get them off the main road to avoid additional accidents with oncoming traffic.
Watch for possible signs of explosion or fire. If you see any signs of smoke or fire, get everyone away from the vehicles immediately.
Never leave the scene of an accident, even if it is minor. You can face serious penalties for being a hit and run driver.
3. Exchange Information
After everyone is safe, you will need to exchange information with other drivers. You will need to get:
- Names
- Numbers
- Addresses
- Drivers’ license numbers
- License plate numbers
- Basic insurance information
- Witness contact information
Make sure you get all parties involved. You may also want to get some information on the other passengers.
It’s important to be cordial with the other drivers and remain calm—no matter who is at fault. You should also avoid apologizing or admitting guilt at the scene.
4. Take Pictures and Document the Car Accident
Next, you are going to want to document the accident. You can create written and audio details in various apps such as WreckCheck. That will then send the information to your agent.
If you don’t have a smartphone, no worries. Try drawing a picture of the accident and make notes of what happened. How did the accident occur?
You should also take photos of your vehicle’s damage. You want to try to have as much information as possible because your brain will start getting fuzzy when trying to recall details.
Taking photos of your car and the accident will also help your insurance company compare and contrast to determine damage from an accident.
5. Call Your Insurance Company
You should call your insurance company as soon as possible after an accident. You need to tell them exactly what happened and the extent of injuries to you and others. Try to be as clear as possible.
You should never lie to your insurance company because you could get into serious trouble, including getting your claim denied. You will also have to get a copy of the police report so that the insurance company can review the details.
You should call your insurance company whether you are at fault or not. Even if you are not at fault, your insurance company will work with the other insurance company to handle repairs and other compensation.
6. Keep Track of Medical Treatment
You should keep a folder of all your medical treatment. After an accident, you should see a doctor even if you don’t think you are hurt. Some injuries, like whiplash, take time to show up.
You should have detailed accounts of all doctors you see including specialists like chiropractors, physical therapists, and any other medical provider. Make sure you have all your medical bills and reports handy before your claim is settled.
It is pretty easy to document all the medical expenses, but you may also be able to get compensation for pain and suffering. It’s hard to determine.
You may want to keep a journal about how your injuries impact your daily life. That includes how many days of work you miss, how your family life is affected, and routine activities you cannot complete.
7. Call an Attorney
If you or anyone else is injured in the accident, you may want to consult an attorney. An experienced Buffalo Car Accident Lawyer will help you get compensated fairly for your injuries or can help defend you if you are at fault.
Most lawyers are not paid until after you are rewarded a settlement. Your lawyer will handle dealing with insurance companies and any other attorneys involved. If you get a call from the other insurance company, just be polite and tell them to call your attorney.
This service will help remove some stress and help you recoup from the accidents.
These Are the Steps to Take After an Accident
A car accident can happen at any time. It’s important to remain calm and be courteous to others involved.
Be sure to make sure everyone is okay first and move to safety. Call 911 and exchange information. Try to take photos of the damage and accident, so you can remember some of the details when you talk to your insurance company.
Looking for more advice? Keep checking out our site for information to help you with all things in life from health, food, business, and more.