First and foremost you should make sure that everyone involved in the crash is safe then if it’s safe to do so pull your car off the road or into a parking lot.
Try to do this before traffic starts moving again this will help to avoid any secondary incidents. After a car accident, prioritize your health. Visit a trusted car accident injury clinic for immediate evaluation and personalized treatment your well-being matters most.
1. Check for Injuries
If you are able, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. You should never leave a car accident scene without first checking to see if everyone involved is safe.
Determine if it is safe to talk to the other driver, and be careful not to insinuate blame or show anger. Road rage is often the cause of crashes and it can make it difficult to figure out who is at fault.
Obtain names, phone numbers and license plate information from drivers involved in the accident. Also get the name of their insurance company and policy number this will be helpful if you ever need to speak with an insurance adjuster.
2. Report the Accident
You should always call the police, even if the accident appears minor. Police officers can collect information and document the incident, which can prove invaluable in a later lawsuit.
In addition, if you get into a dispute with the other driver or witnesses over what happened, having an official police report can resolve conflicts. It may also help you avoid insurance fraud, as some drivers claim injuries and damages they never sustained.
When a police officer interviews you, remain calm and answer the questions thoroughly. The report will be used as evidence if you file an injury claim with the insurer or decide to sue.
3. Exchange Information
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may need to exchange information with the at-fault driver. However, you should only attempt to gather this information when it is safe to do so and your own wellbeing is not jeopardized.
Make sure you get the other driver’s full name and insurance details. Also, double-check that the driver’s name is the same as the one on their car registration or insurance card. You should also ask for the names and contact information of any witnesses. These people can provide testimony that supports your claim for compensation. This is particularly important if the other driver refuses to cooperate.
4. Take Pictures
Taking photos of the accident scene is important. If you can do it safely without putting yourself or others in danger, then take as many photos as possible. Make sure to include close-ups of dents, scrapes and other damage on your vehicle. If possible, frame the photos with your license plate to prove it was your car that sustained the damage. Also photograph skid marks, traffic signals and area conditions.
Taking pictures of injuries is also important. Some injuries, such as bruises, may not be apparent right away. It’s helpful to have a medical record of your injury progression. Ensure that your camera has a time stamp engaged so the photos have an accurate date.
5. Stay at the Scene
Although you may be tempted to leave the scene of a crash, especially in cases where injuries are minor, it is always best to stay put. Doing so allows the police to create an official report. It also prevents the other driver from changing their story later, which could negatively impact your case.
If you are able to, take pictures of the accident scene and both vehicles from multiple angles. Pay special attention to skid marks and damage. If possible, set up flares or reflective emergency triangles on the road to mark the location of the crash.
6. Get Help
Even if you feel fine in the immediate aftermath of a crash, it is important to go to your doctor as soon as possible. During this appointment, make sure to share any new symptoms with your doctor, as they may be related to the accident.
After a car accident, you may be feeling a variety of emotions, including shock, guilt, fear, anxiety and nervousness. Take a deep breath and count to 10 to calm down. Then, check for any injuries and if safe to do so, check on passengers. Finally, take pictures of the accident scene and damage to your car. This will help you in the future if you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit.