Car accidents can still happen even if you’re a safe and cautious driver. You may be left with injuries, damages, and emotional trauma. However, it’s crucial to keep a level head and take certain steps. This is how to proceed legally after a car accident.
Get to Safety and Check for Injuries
Immediately after a car accident, pull over to the shoulder if your vehicle is operable. If it’s totaled, get out and go to a safe place out of the road. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. You may not immediately notice symptoms because of the adrenaline pumping through your body.
Call 911
Police must be called to the scene of any car accident resulting in property damage over $500, injuries, or death. Call 911 immediately if any of these situations apply. You can also request an ambulance so emergency medical personnel can administer treatment on the scene.
A police officer will create an accident report. Ask for their name and badge number and where to get a copy for your evidence.
Gather Evidence
In addition to the police accident report, gather evidence from the scene. Take notes if possible. You can create a journal when you get home and note all the details surrounding the accident such as the weather, traffic conditions, and more. Take photos of the vehicles, other damaged property, the road, and skid marks. You may even want to take a few of your injuries if they’re visible.
Video evidence can further strengthen your claim. If the accident occurred near a store or home, ask about surveillance footage. Look for traffic cameras as well.
Gather and Exchange Information
Approach the other driver involved in the accident and exchange information. Avoid making conversation, admitting to fault, or even apologizing. Get their name, contact information, driver’s license and license plate numbers, and insurance data. Look for witnesses and speak with them. Get their names and contact information and ask them to explain what they saw while recording them with your phone.
Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical attention immediately after the accident. You may not feel hurt, but it’s possible to have unforeseen internal injuries, which are serious. Treatment gives you a paper trail of evidence in the form of your medical records and out-of-pocket expenses.
Contact the Insurance Company
Contact the at-fault driver’s insurance company to explain that you were in an accident. Stick to the specifics by giving the date and location where it occurred and telling them about your injuries and damages. Answer questions as succinctly as possible and don’t over-share information.
Consult With an Attorney
Consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in car accident cases. They’ll review your evidence and determine how to maneuver your case. This includes negotiating with the insurance company and getting you a fair settlement. If your claim doesn’t succeed, your lawyer can expertly represent you in a court trial.
Car accidents can be devastating, but the right attorney can make all the difference. Contact a local attorney at your earliest convenience to discuss your case with a lawyer.