Car accidents happen in a split second but can leave a lasting impact on your health, finances, and peace of mind. Whether it’s a minor collision or a serious crash, your actions right after the accident are crucial. Knowing what to do can help protect your rights and make it easier to deal with the insurance company or even a potential legal case.
If you’re unsure of how to move forward, it’s often wise to get legal help from a car accident lawyer who can guide you through the process. However, first, know the five essential actions you should take right after a car accident.
1. Check for Injuries and Call Emergency Services
Your first priority should always be safety. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even if you feel okay, remember that some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, don’t show immediate symptoms.
Call 911 or contact the Accident Management Center to report the accident and request medical help if needed. This also ensures a police report is filed, which could be critical later if you pursue a legal claim.
2. Move to a Safe Location (If Possible)
If the vehicles involved are creating a hazard and can be safely moved, try to pull over to the side of the road or another safe area. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Staying in a dangerous position on a busy road can increase the risk of a secondary accident. But if moving your car is unsafe, it’s best to leave it where it is and wait for help.
3. Document the Scene Thoroughly
Take photos of the damage to all vehicles, the surrounding area, skid marks, road conditions, and anything else that might be useful. Also, collect the other driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and license plate number.
If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact info as well. This documentation could become key evidence if you need to file a claim or take legal action. At this stage, it may also be a good idea to get legal help from a car accident attorney, especially if there are injuries or disputes over who is at fault. An attorney can help you avoid common mistakes and deal with the insurance company on your behalf.
4. Get Medical Attention, Even If You Feel Fine
Some injuries take hours or even days to show up. Getting checked by a medical professional right after the accident helps ensure your well-being, and it creates a medical record that links your injuries to the crash. This documentation is essential if you later seek compensation for your medical bills or pain and suffering.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurer as soon as you can. Provide the basic facts and avoid admitting fault during the call. Be honest, but don’t give more details than necessary. If the other party’s insurance company contacts you, avoid discussing the accident with them directly. Let your lawyer handle that communication if you’ve already hired one.
Final Thoughts
The time immediately following a car accident is overwhelming, but taking the right steps can make all the difference. Don’t downplay your injuries or delay action. If the accident was serious, speaking with a car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure you’re not left covering costs that weren’t your fault.
