Car accidents can be very traumatic events. Whether you suffer a serious injury and major damage to your vehicle or walk out unscathed, the incident will generally leave your adrenaline pumping and your mind a bit rattled.
There are a number of important steps to take following a car accident. Accident victims are often shaken up and not thinking very clearly. As a result, it is very easy to overlook an important point during the process. If you do, it may cause you problems down the road.
In order to ensure that your car accident is handled properly, you may want to carry a checklist around with you so that you don’t forget anything in the moment.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
It is important to remember never to leave the scene of a car accident. If you have been hit or have hit someone else, pull over to the side of the road and call the police immediately. The police will need to fill out an accident report for use by the insurance companies.
While you are waiting for the police to come, you should obtain the following information from the other driver:
- Driver’s name
- Address
- Driver’s license number
- Phone number
- License plate number
- Insurance information (name of carrier and policy number)
- Names, addresses, and phone numbers of all witnesses
If you have a camera with you, it is a good idea to take pictures of the damage to your vehicle, the other driver’s vehicle, and the accident scene. The sooner you do this, the better. Changing traffic and weather conditions may alter the accident scene quickly.
Get examined by a doctor as soon as possible. Often, you may not realize you are injured at the time of the car accident. It may take a few days before your symptoms appear. By seeing a doctor right after your accident, you establish a record of any potential injuries that may arise from the incident.
all your insurance company immediately to report the accident. You must contact your insurance company even if the auto accident was the other driver’s fault. The most effective way to handle repairs to your car and cover medical expenses is to have your insurance company lay out the money. They will be able seek reimbursement from the other driver’s insurance company at a later date.
If you have suffered any serious injuries, you should contact an experienced car accident lawyer at once to find out how to best go about receiving compensation for your injuries. Never sign any documents from the other driver’s insurance company without consulting a car accident attorney first. Frequently, these documents are designed to release them from liability in relation to your injuries. Hiring a car accident lawyer is the best way to safeguard your settlement.
