Automotive

What to Do after a Car Accident

car accidentFor anyone who has ever been in a car accident, the moments that follow are nothing short of confusing and emotional. That’s why it’s important to have a plan of action for when the dust settles. Whether it’s a fender bender or severe wreck, the following five steps will help you get your life back in order.

1. Check You and Your Passengers for Injuries

The safety of yourself and other passengers is top priority with a car accident, so it’s important to determine any injuries first. After you’ve determined whether you’ve sustained any injuries, stay in your vehicle and call 911.

Although the passengers in the other vehicle may have likely sustained injuries as well, the last thing you want to do is exit your vehicle on a busy street or highway to check on the other party; doing so could result in further injury.

2. Notify the Authorities Immediately

Try to notify the police as soon as possible. Chances are witnesses in the area will do the same, but it never hurts to call yourself, especially if you need to describe any injuries you’ve suffered.

By calling 911, the police will also notify paramedics based on the description of the accident. If it’s just a fender bender, all that’s likely needed are one or two officers at the scene of the accident.

3. Gather the Proper Information

Exchanging information with the other driver is an important post-accident step. Not only does this give both parties the opportunity to share insurance and personal information, it’s a necessary safeguard for any future problems that may arise.

In the unfortunate case that a lawsuit is filed against you due to the traffic accident or you need to file a lawsuit yourself, keep in mind there are specific lawyers for specific traffic cases.

For instance, if you’re looking for attorneys that specialize in traffic accidents where trucks are involved, lawyers from textrial.com is a way to go.

4. Photograph the Accident

Considering every cell phone in this day and age is equipped with a built-in camera, it shouldn’t be a problem to take at least a few pictures of the accident. As long as the conditions are safe, try to take pictures of both vehicles involved in the collision.

It’s likely your on-sight insurance agent will take their own photos of the collision as well, but sometimes vehicles are moved before insurance agents arrive on scene. So, attempt to take pictures of the vehicles as they are directly after the accident.

5. Find Witnesses

Again, police officers and insurance agents will do their best to track down any witnesses of the accident. But, many witnesses are likely to leave the scene before the authorities arrive, so it’s important to retain witnesses while they’re still present.

All that’s needed from a witness is their name and contact information. Also, ask them if it’s all right for your attorney to contact them if legal action is taken.

By following the proper steps after a car accident, you’ll be more likely to avoid any further turmoil that may arise after the road is cleared.

If you have any questions, please ask below!