What to do After Car Accident

July 1, 2024

No one wants to think about being in a car accident, but the reality is that accidents happen every day.
Car accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence on our roads, and knowing what to do in the moments following a crash can make a big difference in the outcome of the situation.   Whether you are involved in a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, it is important to stay calm and follow these steps to ensure everyone's safety and make the post-accident process as smooth as possible.
Here's what to do after car accident:

what to do after car accident

1. Check for injuries

After a car accident, the first and most important thing to do is to assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even if you don't feel any immediate pain or discomfort, it's crucial to check for any signs of injury such as cuts, bruises, or soreness. Adrenaline can mask pain in the minutes following a crash, so it's important to take a moment to calm down and assess your physical state.
If you or any passengers are experiencing severe pain, bleeding, or signs of a concussion (such as confusion, dizziness, or loss of consciousness), seek immediate medical attention. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to potential injuries sustained in a car accident.
Even if you don't feel any immediate pain or discomfort, it's still a good idea to follow up with a healthcare provider after a car accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not present themselves right away but can manifest days or even weeks later. By seeking medical attention promptly, you can ensure that any hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated before they worsen.
In addition to checking yourself and your passengers for injuries, it's also important to assess the condition of the other individuals involved in the accident. Offer assistance to anyone who appears to be injured, but be cautious in your approach. Moving an injured person incorrectly can exacerbate their injuries, so it's best to leave medical care to the professionals.

2. Move to a safe location

Immediately after a car accident, your adrenaline is likely to be pumping and your first instinct may be to stay in your vehicle. However, this can be extremely dangerous, especially if your car is in the middle of the road or in a high-traffic area. Staying in your vehicle puts you at risk of being hit by another car, causing even more harm.
If your car is still drivable, try to move it to the side of the road or into a parking lot. If your car is not drivable, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers of your presence and slowly get out of your car and move to a safe location, such as the sidewalk or a grassy area.
Once you have moved to a safe location, check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if there are no visible injuries, it is still important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

3. Exchange information

Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Be sure to also get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Once you have ensured that everyone is safe and uninjured, it is important to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. This information typically includes:
  • Name and contact information: Make sure to get the other driver’s full name, phone number, and address. This will be essential for any follow-up communication or legal procedures.
  • Insurance information: Exchange insurance company names, policy numbers, and contact information. This will help streamline the claims process and ensure that all damages are properly covered.
  • Vehicle information: Take note of the make, model, color, and license plate number of the other driver’s vehicle. This will help in identifying the vehicles involved in the accident.
  • Witness information: If there were any witnesses to the accident, it is important to get their contact information as well. Their testimonies can be crucial in determining fault and liability.

4. Document the scene

Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to the vehicles, skid marks, and any other relevant details. These photos can serve as valuable evidence later on and can be helpful for insurance claims and legal purposes.

5. Report the accident

Reporting the accident ensures that there is an official record of the incident, which can be important for insurance claims, legal proceedings, and other matters. Failing to report an accident can lead to complications down the line, so it's always best to err on the side of caution and report the accident, no matter how minor it may seem.

When should you report an accident?

It's important to report an accident as soon as possible after it occurs. In most cases, this means calling the police to the scene of the accident so that they can file a report. Even if the accident seems minor and there are no injuries, it's still a good idea to report it to the police. This can help protect you in case the other party involved in the accident tries to make false claims or disputes what happened.

What information should you provide when you report an accident?

When reporting an accident, it's important to provide as much information as possible. This includes details about the location of the accident, the parties involved, any injuries sustained, and any damage to the vehicles involved. You should also provide your contact information and insurance information if requested.
If there were any witnesses to the accident, be sure to get their contact information as well. Witness statements can be crucial in determining fault in an accident, so having this information can be extremely helpful.

6. Notify your insurance company

One important step that you should not overlook is notifying your insurance company.
Here are a few reasons why it's crucial to inform your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible:
  • Timely claims processing: Insurance companies usually have specific time frames within which you need to file a claim after an accident. By promptly reporting the incident to your insurer, you can start the claims process sooner and potentially get your claim processed more quickly.
  • Legal requirements: In some states, failing to report an accident to your insurance company within a certain time frame could result in penalties or even the denial of your claim. It's important to check the requirements in your state and make sure you comply with them to avoid any legal issues down the line.
  • Protection of your rights: Notifying your insurance company after an accident ensures that your rights are protected. Your insurer can guide you through the claims process and help you understand your policy coverage. They can also assist you in dealing with the other party's insurance company if needed.
  • Documentation and evidence: Your insurance company will need specific information about the accident, such as the date, time, location, and details of the parties involved. By reporting the accident promptly, you increase the likelihood of accurately documenting the incident and preserving crucial evidence, such as photos of the damage and witness statements.

To notify your insurance company about the accident, follow these steps:
  • Contact your insurance agent or company immediately: Call your insurance provider's claims department as soon as possible after the accident. Provide them with all the necessary details about the incident, including the extent of the damage, injuries sustained, and any other relevant information.
  • Collect the required documentation: Your insurance company will likely ask for specific documents to process your claim, such as a police report, medical records, and repair estimates. Make sure to gather and submit these documents promptly to expedite the claims process.
  • Cooperate with the claims adjuster: Your insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to handle your case. Be cooperative and provide them with all the information they request. Keep communication lines open and stay in touch with your adjuster throughout the claims process.

7. Seek medical attention

One of the most obvious reasons to seek medical attention after a car accident is to address any injuries you may have sustained. Even if you don't feel any immediate pain or discomfort, it is still important to get evaluated by a doctor. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not present symptoms right away but can have serious long-term effects if left untreated. By seeking medical attention promptly, you can receive appropriate treatment and hopefully prevent any complications from arising.
Additionally, getting a medical evaluation after a car accident creates a record of your injuries. This documentation can be crucial if you need to file a personal injury claim or pursue legal action against the at-fault party. Without medical records to back up your claims, it can be much more challenging to prove the extent of your injuries and secure fair compensation for your damages.
In some cases, the adrenaline and shock of being in a car accident can mask symptoms of serious injuries. For this reason, it is always a good idea to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention even if you feel fine initially. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference in your recovery process and help ensure that you receive the care you need.

8. Follow up with your insurance company

Keep in touch with your insurance company throughout the claims process and provide any necessary documentation or information they request.
  • Ensure that all necessary information has been provided: Following up with your insurance company can help ensure that all necessary information and documentation have been provided for your claim. This includes things like police reports, medical records, and estimates for vehicle repairs.
  • Stay informed about the status of your claim: By following up with your insurance company, you can stay informed about the status of your claim and any updates or decisions that have been made. This can help alleviate any uncertainty or anxiety you may have about the outcome of your claim.
  • Address any issues or delays: Following up with your insurance company allows you to address any issues or delays that may be holding up the claims process. This could include missing information, disputes with the other party's insurance company, or delays in receiving compensation for damages.
  • Advocate for yourself: Following up with your insurance company shows that you are actively involved in the claims process and are advocating for yourself to ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. This can help speed up the resolution of your claim and ensure that you are treated fairly by your insurance company.

9. Consider seeking legal advice

After a car accident, it's crucial to protect yourself and your rights. Insurance companies may try to pressure you into accepting a settlement that is lower than what you deserve. By seeking legal advice, you can ensure that you're getting the compensation you're entitled to.
A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, including dealing with insurance companies, negotiating settlements, and representing you in court if necessary. They can also help you gather evidence, such as police reports and medical records, to strengthen your case.
Additionally, a lawyer can help you understand your rights and the laws surrounding car accidents in your state. They can advise you on the best course of action to take, whether that means filing a lawsuit or settling out of court. Having a legal professional on your side can give you peace of mind and help you focus on recovering from your injuries.
Contact Michael J. Englert, Attorney at Law today to schedule a consultation and learn how he can help you navigate your car accident matter. With his dedication, experience, and expertise on your side, you can rest assured that your legal rights are in good hands.

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