Being involved in a motor vehicle collision can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. In the aftermath of an accident, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to protect your health, legal rights, and potential claims for compensation. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do immediately after a collision as shared by a car accident lawyer:
Your first priority should always be your health and safety, as well as the safety of others involved in the accident. Here’s what you should do:
• Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s still a good idea to seek medical attention as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further accidents. If the car cannot be moved, turn on your hazard lights and use road flares or warning triangles to alert other drivers.
It’s important to report the accident to law enforcement, especially if there are injuries, significant vehicle damage, or disputes about fault. The police will create an official accident report, which can be crucial evidence in any future claims. Be sure to:
• Provide Accurate Information: When speaking to the police, provide accurate information about what happened, but avoid speculating or admitting fault. Stick to the facts.
• Obtain A Copy Of The Police Report: Ask how you can obtain a copy of the accident report. This document will be essential for insurance claims and any potential legal actions.
After ensuring everyone’s safety and calling the police, exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident as our friends at Woron and Dhillon, LLC would advise. Key details to collect include:
• Names, Addresses, And Contact Information: Get the full name, address, and phone number of the other driver(s).
• Insurance Information: Record the insurance company and policy number of the other driver(s).
• Vehicle Details: Note the make, model, color, and license plate number of all vehicles involved.
• Driver’s License Number: Record the other driver’s license number and state of issuance.
Thorough documentation of the accident scene can be invaluable for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings. Use your smartphone to:
• Take Photos And Videos: Capture images of the vehicle damage, the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Take wide shots as well as close-ups.
• Note The Date, Time, And Weather Conditions: Record the specific date and time of the accident, as well as the weather conditions. These details can be important in establishing the context of the accident.
• Talk To Witnesses: If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information and, if possible, a brief statement about what they saw.
Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately but can become serious if left untreated. Additionally, a medical report can serve as crucial evidence if you need to file a personal injury claim.
Contact your insurance company to report the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the necessary details, including the police report number, and cooperate fully with their investigation. However, be cautious about giving recorded statements or accepting an early settlement offer before consulting with an attorney. We recommend NOT giving a recorded statement.
If you’ve been injured in the accident, it’s wise to consult with a personal injury attorney before speaking with the other party’s insurance company or accepting any settlement offers. An experienced attorney can:
• Evaluate Your Case: Determine whether you have a viable personal injury claim and advise you on the potential value of your case.
• Handle Communications: Deal with the insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you don’t inadvertently say something that could harm your claim.
• Pursue Compensation: Help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident.
Maintain a detailed record of everything related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, correspondence with insurance companies, and any lost wages due to time off work. This documentation will be critical in supporting your claim.
Being involved in a motor vehicle collision is a stressful experience, but taking the right steps immediately after the accident can make a significant difference in your ability to recover physically, emotionally, and financially. If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident, contact a lawyer near you for help.
