Following a car accident, it is very important to take steps right away to protect your safety, your legal rights, and to help the insurance claims process go as smoothly as possible. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
1. Check for injuries: Check yourself and passengers for any injuries. If anyone is injured, call an ambulance.
2. Move to a safe location (if possible): If the accident is minor, move your vehicles off of the road and out of the way of traffic. If your vehicle is not drivable, ensure that you and your passengers are safe from the road until help arrives.
3. Call the police: If the police don’t show up, report the incident to them, this can help expedite your insurance claim process and legal processes.
4. Exchange information: Gather important information from the other driver(s) involved in the crash. This includes their name, phone number, address, car insurance company & policy number, driver’s license number, and license plate number. If the other driver is not the owner of the vehicle involved, make sure you get the owner’s information.
5. Document the Scene: Take pictures using your phone of the scene of the accident, the vehicle damages, roadway conditions, and any visible injuries. This documentation may be beneficial in protecting you against insurance fraud claims, or legal claims regarding your accident.
6. Do Not Admit Fault: Do not state the accident was your fault nor apologize for it. Remain calm and avoid arguing with the other driver. Just collect the information and await law enforcement to take over from there.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company: As soon as possible, inform your insurer of the accident. Be sure to provide the right details but lack unnecessary information that may hurt your claim.
8. Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries, such as internal injuries or whiplash, might not be immediately detected. See a physician, even if you do not feel hurt right away, to ensure there are no underlining issues.
9. Do Not Leave the Scene: Never leave the scene of the accident until law enforcement arrives and you have collected all the requested information. Leaving the scene could have a negative legal consequence.
10. Consult an Attorney: Even if the accident seems simple, complications can appear later. An attorney speaks on your behalf, ensures you are protected, and navigates you through the legal process, and represents you if necessary.
By following these steps, you can ensure your safety, gather the necessary documentation, and strengthen your insurance claim or legal case, if needed.
