Car accidents can be overwhelming, traumatic, and frightening experiences, often leaving those involved unsure about what next steps to take. Knowing the proper steps to take immediately after a car accident is beneficial for a handful of reasons as this knowledge can help protect your health, safety, and legal rights. In this article, we will explore the important steps to take in the aftermath of a car accident.
Ensure Safety and Check For Injuries
The first thing you will want to do following a car accident is ensure everyone involved is safe. If any individuals have been injured, it is crucial that you contact emergency services right away so that they can get the necessary medical attention. It is important to know that sometimes adrenaline can mask the pain of injuries and the onset of symptoms may be delayed. Therefore, it is important to monitor your health for even weeks after the accident.
After ensuring that you and all individuals involved are safe, it is important that you try and move your vehicle to a safe location, such as the side of the road, if possible. Doing this will help to prevent further car vehicle damage or accidents from occurring.
Call the Police
After you have made sure that everyone involved in the accident is safe, it is important to contact the police, even if it is just a minor accident. Once the police arrive, they will create a police report for the accident which will serve as an official record that can be used for insurance claims and legal proceedings. When the police arrive, you will be asked to provide important details about the accident. When speaking with them, be sure that you do not admit fault for the accident, as this can complicate legal matters.
Exchange Contact Information
The next thing you will want to do is exchange personal contact information with the other driver involved in the accident. It is important to gather important information such as full names, phone numbers, insurance policy numbers, driver’s license numbers, and license plate numbers. In the event that any witnesses saw the accident occur, try to do what you can to obtain their contact information as well. Their testimony can be incredibly valuable in determining fault and helping recount how the accident happened.
Document the Scene
Next, you will want to document the accident scene and gather evidence. Using your phone, you will want to capture photos and videos of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, debris, road conditions, and any other details relevant to the accident. This documentation can greatly bolster your claim.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Notifying your insurance company about the accident is the next important step to take. You will be asked to provide information such as the police report, details of the other parties involved, as well as any evidence you may have collected. During this process, it is vital that you are honest and provide an accurate account of what occurred, as failing to do so can lead to potential denial of your claim
Contact an Attorney
The last step that you should take after a car accident is to consult with a Tacoma car accident attorney. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims, negotiate settlements, and represent you in court if needed. Having an attorney on your side can help ease the burden of the legal process, help you recover maximum compensation, and protect your rights.
