Getting in a car accident can be scary. Your nerves are rattled from being shaken around and you’re not sure what to do from here to make sure everything moves forward smoothly and legally. This is a list to refer to if you ever find yourself in this situation.
Stop
If you were just in an accident, don’t drive away. You want to stay right where the collision happened so turn on your hazards to let people know that you are not moving. You want to protect the scene of the accident as best you can so the police can clearly see what happened.
Call the Police
Even if everyone is fine and there doesn’t seem to be any sort of major damage call 911. A police report may be necessary to file an insurance claim even if it’s just to make a claim for damage to your vehicle. Other vehicles involved in the accident should also stay where they are so as to not compromise the scene of the incident.
Be Accurate
Be accurate and honest when speaking to police. Tell them everything you can remember to the best of your abilities. If they ask you if you are injured and you are unsure, then tell them exactly that. Sometimes the initial shock of a car crash can cover up pain you may be experiencing. Hours or even sometimes days later you will finally begin to feel the injuries you received in the accident.
Take Pictures
Try and get pictures of the accident. These will be important for insurance claims as well as any legal actions that may need to be taken. If there is damage to your car, try to take pictures from a few different angles so you have an accurate representation of what happened. If you were hurt, take pictures of your injuries.
Exchange Information
If there were multiple cars involved in the accident get information from the other drivers. Useful information to get would be –
- Their name
- Phone number
- License plate number
- Insurance information
Visit the Doctor
If you didn’t initially think you were hurt but realize later that you might be injured visit with your doctor as soon as possible. You will need to get the problem documented in a timely fashion for insurance claims and in case any legal action needs to be taken.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company as soon as possible. Many policies require that you immediately report the accident to your insurance company. They will want quick cooperation to be certain that everything is taken care of correctly.
Protect Your Rights
If any legal actions need to be taken make sure you contact an attorney, like those available at www.magicvalleylaw.com, to ensure that you are taken care of correctly. Your attorney will make sure you are treated fairly and that no important evidence is lost.
Remember to stay calm as you deal with the situation. It will be easiest for the police to handle the accident if you are collected and willing to work with them. Try not to speculate or point fingers. Be honest and understanding and things will move more smoothly.
