What To Do Immediately After A Car Accident: Practical Steps To Protect Health, Rights, And A Potential Claim
No one expects or plans to be involved in a car accident, but knowing what to do in those first moments following can make all the difference for your health, peace of mind, and any future insurance or legal claim.
Attorneys such as our friends at Johnson & Alday, LLC know that the immediate aftermath of an accident can be frightening and confusing, so understanding exactly what steps to take is important.
- Check for Injuries and Get to Safety
Your very first priority is always your health and safety. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries immediately. If you or anyone else is seriously hurt, call 911 and do not attempt to move them unless there is an immediate danger, like a fire. If possible and safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic or risking another crash.
- Call the Police, Even for a Minor Accident
Many people skip this step; however, having a police report is vital if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action later. When officers arrive, stick to the facts when describing what happened and do not admit fault. Exchange information and document everything.
- Exchange Information and Document Everything
Swap names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and incurrence details with the other driver. If there are witnesses, get their contact information too. Use your phone to take clear photos of vehicles, any visible injuries, the accident scene, road conditions, and anything else that might help prove what happened. A car accident lawyer will help you gather evidence after the fact, but any evidence that you can collect at the scene of the accident may be crucial for your case.
- Seek Medical Attention Even if You Feel Fine
It’s common for people to feel completely fine after an accident due to shock or adrenaline. However, injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries may not show symptoms until hours or days later. Seeing a doctor right away could protect your health and creates a medical record that directly links any injuries to the accident. This is a critical factor if you need to file a claim later.
- Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly
Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Stick to the facts when describing the incident. Avoid giving recorded statements to the other driver’s insurance company before talking to your attorney, their goal is often to minimize what they must pay you, and they may try to twist your words into an admission of fault or to mitigate your injuries.
- Consider Talking to a Lawyer
If you were hurt or have significant damage, consult a qualified attorney before accepting any settlement. A lawyer can help protect your rights, deal with the insurance companies, and fight for fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
A car accident can turn your life upside down in seconds but knowing what to do beforehand can protect you both legally and financially.