What To Do After a Car Accident

Are you terrified of flying? What about riding on the back of a motorcycle, or skydiving? 

We hear about plane crashes and train derailments on the news, but the truth is, you are more likely to be involved in a car accident, then you are to be in a plane crash.

For millions of people, a car is their primary mode of transportation. It’s so part of our everyday life that we don’t often think about being in an accident, let alone what to do. 

I can share with you some tips from my personal experience.

What To Do After a Car Accident

Prevent any further damage

First thing you should do is immediately get out of harm’s way. If you’re able, move your car out of the middle of the road and onto the shoulder. This prevents further accidents of passerby’s. If it’s dark, make sure your lights stay on, and you turn your hazards lights on.

Call 911 and the Police

Even for small accidents, such as a “fender bender,” you want the authorities involved. While most of the time we can handle the situation ourselves, it’s best to have a 3rd party there to take your statement and document.

This is to cover yourself primarily from previous damages being claimed to the insurance company and ensuring that you have proper documentation at the time of the accident for your claim, as well. 

Of course, if you or someone else is injured, you want to have medical attention right away. The paramedics will check for specific injuries at the scene, and recommend the best course of action.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel “fine,” you should seek medical attention right away. Due to shock, or delayed onset of symptoms, you may be more injured than you think.

Besides, prolonging medical attention can lead to more severe injuries, and hinder your claims when filing with the insurance company.

Take photos & Contact your insurance company

You’ll want to take pictures of the scene of the accident, your vehicle, any other vehicles involved, as well as items or objects that may have affected or caused an accident.

Also, you’ll want to take photos of any injuries you may have received as a result of the accident.

You’ll also want to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. This helps with statements, car rentals, and towing of your vehicle. You’ll also want to get the insurance information for any other’s that were involved, even if you have a police report.

Seek out an Attorney

Seeking out an attorney is always a good idea, even if it’s to receive information as a consultation. If an accident is minor, you could settle on your own with the insurance company.

However, this is not recommended.

There are many different aspects to these cases and many things that we don’t know about unless you practice law. There are also specialty lawyers, such as Bike Accident Attorneys, personal injury lawyers, even for industrial accidents.

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