7 Steps to Take Following a Car Accident
Being able to drive is one of life’s greatest freedoms, and many people look forward to taking to the road when they hit the legal age. Unfortunately, car accidents are always a risk when operating a motor vehicle.
If you’re unlucky enough to be involved in a car accident, there are certain steps you need to take to ensure your own safety and the safety of others. Not only that, but hiring the best car accident attorney in your area can help to ensure that the legal process runs smoothly when the time comes to explore this avenue.
So, let’s learn more.
1. Check for Injuries
The most important thing you should do following a car accident is to check for injuries to yourself and those around you. Are you bleeding? Do you feel faint or dizzy? Are any bones protruding from your skin?
If you notice any of these things, you must call for emergency assistance immediately. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s still a good idea to get checked by a doctor when it is safe to do so. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not be apparent right away, so it is a good idea to get checked to err on the side of caution.
If anyone is seriously injured, don’t move them. Wait for emergency medical personnel to arrive on the scene.
2. Exchange Information with Other Drivers
If you are involved in an accident, it is likely that there will be other drivers involved as well. You will want to get the names, contact information, and insurance information of the other drivers involved. Though this can be a tough conversation to have, it is necessary in order to file a claim. Depending on the damage that has been done, such claims could be necessary to get your vehicle repaired and to get your injuries treated.
You should also try to get the contact information of any witnesses who may have seen the accident. These witnesses can be helpful in providing testimony if the accident goes to court.
3. Notify the Police
If you are in a minor accident, exchanging information is usually sufficient. However, if there is any significant damage to either vehicle, you must notify the police. Minor accidents can turn into major ones if the drivers cannot agree on what happened. The police will document the accident, and once done, they will start an investigation to determine who was at fault. This can help to get the situation resolved as soon as possible.
If you are injured, the police will also provide medical assistance to those who need it.
4. Move Your Car If It’s in The Way
Your car can be a hazard to oncoming traffic if it’s not moved out of the way. If you’re able, drive your car to the side of the road. If you can’t move your car, put on your hazard lights.
If you are on a busy road, you may want to call a tow truck to move your car for you. At the same time, be sure to wait in a safe place, like the side of the road, until the tow truck arrives. This can help to guarantee your safety. Whatever you do, don’t leave it in the middle of the road where it could cause another accident.
5. Document the Accident Scene
When you are in a car accident, it is important to document the scene. This means taking pictures and writing down what happened. This information can be used to prove who was at fault and it can also help insurance companies determine how much money to pay you for your damages.
Though it may be hard to do so, try and write down what happened in as much detail as possible, as this could help the authorities determine who was at fault and how much in damages should be awarded.
6. Contact Your Insurance Company
As soon as you have the opportunity to do so, you should contact your insurance company. Though you may not think it, they can help with a variety of things, including:
- Filing a claim
- Arranging for a rental car
- Getting your car repaired
- Helping you find a lawyer
Your insurance company will also be able to tell you what your options are and what they will cover. If you have any questions, you should ask your insurance agent or representative.
7. Hire a Lawyer
Finally, if you have been unfortunate enough to have been injured, or if the other driver doesn’t have any insurance, you may need to hire a professional Lakeland car accident lawyer (or one anywhere else).
They can help you navigate the legal process and can ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. The sooner you do this, the better.
Conclusion
After a car accident, it can be difficult to know what to do. This guide provides an overview of the steps you should take after a car accident, from calling the police to seeking medical attention.
Following these guidelines can help make the process easier and ensure that you are protected legally and medically.
