What To Do After You Have Been In A Car Accident.

Article By Patrick Mansfield | Best Rated Law Firms | 02/28/2023

Article Summary

If you are involved in a car accident, fear and confusion can set in quickly. During this time it is important to remember what to do next. In the wake of an accident, your first action should be to make sure that everyone involved is safe and accounted for. After that has been established, the following steps will help guide you through the process of taking care of yourself, car, and all other necessary actions.

Call 911

This step should always come first because it is meant to help get safety personnel, like police officers and/or paramedics, to the scene as soon as possible. If anyone is injured they will be able to receive medical attention right away, while police can take witness testimonies and begin their investigation into who may be responsible for the crash.

Check on Everyone Involved

After you've called 911, the next thing you should do is assess whether anyone needs immediate medical attention by checking on other drivers or passengers who may have been affected by the accident. If someone looks hurt or severely shaken up call for medical assistance right away because any health problems could become worse if not taken seriously.

Document Everything You Can

An accident report with details from both parties included makes it easier when filing a claim with your insurance carrier as well as when negotiating a settlement should one party be deemed at fault. Make sure you document the license plate numbers of those involved and contact information such as name, address and phone number. Take pictures of damages done to vehicle & surrounding area. Get names and contact info of witnesses. Take note of the weather and road conditions. . Also get copies of any police reports that were filled out at a later date once investigation has concluded so everything can stay in order as far documentation goes while processing any claims/settlements. Exchange Insurance Information for all involved. All drivers must exchange insurance information including company name & policy number.

Contact Your Insurance Provider to describe accident. When you first contact the insurance describe what happened, that's it. If you feel like you have been harmed at no fault of your own contact a local Personal Injury Law Firm. If you have a case your assigned Lawyer will handle any farther contacts with the Insurance company. Remember to have your Lawyer handle all contact with the parties involved.