In the US, there are over 6 million car accidents each year. Unfortunately, many car accidents are serious incidents that can be overwhelming.
Understanding what to do after a car accident is crucial, so we’ve put together a brief guide that can help you gather the info you need for your car accident claim. Let’s take a look.
Get to Safety
Once you’re out of harm’s way, assess the damage to your vehicle and any injuries that you or your passengers may have sustained. If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the accident scene and the damages.
It would also be helpful to take videos if you can.
Call the Police
Even if the accident appears to be minor, it’s important to contact law enforcement so that they can document the incident. The police report will be important when you file your car accident claim.
Don’t neglect this obligation, as it can sometimes mean the difference between whether or not you have the evidence you need.
Get Witness Information
If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information so that they can provide a statement later on if necessary. You can also take an audio or video recording of their statement at the scene.
You should ask them to provide their name, the current time, and their perception of the events that transpired. Just be sure to get their permission before doing so.
Exchange Insurance Information
You’ll need to exchange insurance information with the other driver involved in the accident. Be sure to get their name, contact information, and insurance company details.
You should also get their policy number and the insurance agent’s name if possible. The police can help you do so if you do not feel comfortable speaking with the other driver. For example, it’s not uncommon for car accidents to escalate into road rage situations.
Things can quickly become far more complicated if the other party gets aggressive.
Get Medical Attention
Even if you don’t think you were injured, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible. Sometimes, injuries from car accidents (such as whiplash) can take days or even weeks to manifest.
If you wait too long to seek medical attention, the other party’s insurance company may try to argue that your auto accident injuries are not related to the accident.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
After you’ve taken care of the immediate aftermath of the accident, it’s time to start thinking about your next steps.
An experienced car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and make sure that you get the compensation you deserve. Without their help, you’ll be left to deal with the consequences of the accident on your own.
Knowing What to Do After a Car Accident Is Easier Than It Seems
Although knowing what to do after a car accident can seem daunting, it’s much simpler than most people expect. Just remember to stay calm, document everything, and contact an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Want to learn more about what we can do? Be sure to reach out to us today and see how we can help you.