Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and jarring event as a car accident lawyer knows all too well. Knowing what to do and how to respond can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and protecting your legal rights. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you have been in an automobile accident.
1. Do Not Panic – Calmly Assess The Situation
It is important to remain calm. To do so, it is important to focus on your breathing. So take a deep breath and pay attention to your breathing pattern. Your safety and that of others is of the utmost priority. After you have regulated your breathing, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If it’s safe to do so, and your car is operable, move your vehicle to a secure location away from traffic.
2. Call 911 If Necessary
If there are injuries or significant damage, dial 911 right away. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s wise to have medical professionals assess the situation as our friends at Katz Law would recommend.
3. Exchange Information With The Other Party
Once it’s safe, exchange information with the driver of the other vehicle. The necessary information to exchange includes the following:
- Names and contact details of all people in all vehicles involved
- Insurance information for the driver and, if different, the owner of the vehicle
- Vehicle registration numbers
- Make, model, and color of the vehicles involved
4. Photograph The Scene
Using your phone, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries of people involved if possible. Be sure to take photos from multiple angles. This documentation can be vital for insurance claims or legal matters.
5. Do Not Admit Fault
It is wise to avoid discussing what happened or who was at fault in causing the accident while on the scene. You may be emotional and not thinking clearly. So even if you believe you may be at fault in causing the accident, avoid discussing liability at the scene. It’s best to let insurance companies and authorities determine responsibility.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company As Soon As Practical
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with all relevant details, including the information collected from the scene.
7. Seek Medical Attention
Immediately following a wreck, you will probably be feeling the effects of adrenaline in your body. This may mask pain, soreness, or other health issues. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not become apparent until later. It’s a good idea to get checked out by a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues. Also, you may feel stiffness or tightness the day after the accident. If so, it is not too late and it is wise to go get checked out.
8. Keep All Notes And Records
When you get home and are calm, make notes about what occurred, what was said, and what your assessment of the situation was. Maintain a record of all related documents, including police reports, medical records, and correspondence with insurance companies. This can help streamline the claims process later.
9. Consult A Legal Professional
If there are significant damages or injuries, consider consulting a lawyer specializing in car accidents to understand your rights and options. Most lawyers that handle these cases work on a contingency fee basis, so you will not be expected to pay anything up front. So do not hesitate to contact legal counsel to discuss your rights and responsibilities.
Being involved in an automobile accident is a trying and, potentially, life changing event. While no one wants to be involved in a car accident, knowing how to react in the event that you are in an accident can help you navigate the aftermath with confidence and make the best out of an unfortunate situation. Stay calm, prioritize safety, and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others. Remember, being prepared is the best defense in unexpected situations. Safe travels!
