What to Do Immediately Following a Car Crash
What to Do After a Car Accident: 6 Essential Tips
Car accidents can happen anytime—whether you’re commuting to work, visiting friends, or traveling to see family for the holidays. According to the Association for Safe International Road Travel, around 2.35 million people are injured in road crashes each year. While being alert on the road is vital, knowing what to do after an accident is equally important. If you ever find yourself in a crash, here are six tips to help you stay prepared and protect your rights:
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
Being in an accident can be overwhelming, but the first thing to remember is to stay calm. Take a deep breath, check your surroundings, and ensure you stay at the scene. Leaving could result in the accident being classified as a hit-and-run, complicating your legal situation.
Check yourself for injuries, and if possible, safely exit your vehicle. Look out for others involved and offer help where you can, such as moving people out of traffic to prevent further injuries. Avoid blaming others or accepting responsibility right away. Focus on safety first.
2. Call Emergency Services
As soon as you can, dial 911 to notify the police, fire department, and medical personnel. Clearly explain where you are and how many people are injured. Wait for professional assistance to arrive, and avoid taking risky actions like trying to put out a car fire or administering medical procedures on your own.
3. Document Vital Information
Gather as much information as possible. Record the other driver’s license information, vehicle license plate, and details about the accident’s location and time. Take photos or videos of the wreckage and document any conversations you have with the other party. If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information.
Once emergency personnel arrive, make note of the police officers’ names and badge numbers, as well as any details about the emergency response vehicles.
4. Keep Track of Medical Records and Expenses
If you require medical attention after the accident, maintain detailed records of your treatment and prescribed medications. Also, keep a clear record of all medical expenses incurred due to the crash. This documentation will be important if you pursue a personal injury lawsuit, as compensation is often tied to the extent of your injuries and associated costs.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. If your state provides Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, you may be entitled to compensation for certain expenses. Currently, 12 states offer PIP insurance. Familiarize yourself with your state’s insurance requirements and the benefits of PIP.
Some insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts or delay claims, so document all interactions with your provider. Stay persistent, and if necessary, seek legal advice to ensure your rights are upheld.
6. Research Personal Injury Law Firms
If you believe another party was at fault, it’s crucial to find a personal injury law firm with experience in handling auto accident cases. Research different firms, paying attention to their past case outcomes and client reviews, to find one that can effectively represent you.
Car accidents are often unexpected, but being prepared can make a significant difference in the aftermath. If you’ve been injured in an accident and believe someone else was at fault, contact us for a free, no-obligation case review. We’re here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
