What To Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident

Being in a motor vehicle accident is a terrifying experience. With panic, stress, and potential injuries—remembering what to do can be difficult. You and your passengers’ well-being are the top priorities. If you take action through a personal injury claim, the following steps will be necessary.

You may consider printing a copy of the following list and keeping it in your glove box in case you need it. When preparing your case, one of the most important things you will do is to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer.

1. Stay at the Scene of the Accident

No matter how minor your fender-bender is, don’t leave the scene of a car crash. A hit-and-run could result in criminal charges or compromise future claims. If it’s a safe place, stay at the scene of the accident. If not, find a safe place near the accident and stay there. Activate your hazard lights if possible.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Do a self-check for injuries. If you are not injured or have only suffered minimal injuries, check on anyone else to determine if they need emergency medical attention. Do not move anyone who may have a neck injury or back pain. These conditions require qualified medical treatment.

Even if you do not feel injured or hurt, you should still seek medical attention. Car accident injuries, especially injuries to your neck and back, might take a few days to show up. You should see a medical professional right away to assess your condition. This will also give you documentation that you sought medical attention right away.

3. Call 911 or Call the Police

If you or anyone else involved is injured, you should call law enforcement or 911. Not every car accident results in injuries severe enough to require an ambulance. You should still always call the police following a motor vehicle accident. A police officer can examine the scene, talk to everyone involved, and write an accident report. The police report will be critical to your case.

4. Don’t Apologize or Admit Fault

Do not apologize when talking to police officers or other motorists involved in the accident. Be cooperative and cordial when answering questions or exchanging information. But even a polite “I’m so sorry this happened” may be taken as an admission of guilt.

5. Document the Police Investigation

Ask the responding officers for their names and badge numbers. You should be able to get your copy of the police report within a few days. You’ll want to read it to make sure it’s accurate.

6. Exchange Contact Information With the Other Driver

This applies to minor accidents as well. While waiting for police to arrive at the accident scene, exchange information. Insurance information to gather and exchange with other drivers includes:

• • Full names

• • Phone numbers

• • Insurance claim information

• • Complete addresses

• • License plate numbers

• • Insurance policy numbers

• • Driver’s license numbers

7. Gather Evidence

You likely have a cell phone with a camera. Make sure to document the scene of an accident with photos taken from different angles. Doing so will help your insurance adjuster determine compensation for damage. These photos could also help if you end up in court. If there are any witnesses, get their names, addresses, and phone numbers to contact them later.

8. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

Personal injury law can be complex. And you can waive your rights without realizing it. Before you contact your insurance company, contact an experienced personal injury attorney. They will assess your case and advise you on the best course of action.

9. Call Your Auto Insurance Company

Report the auto accident and any injuries to your insurance company. Be factual to ensure you do not get into trouble or are denied automobile accident coverage for the incident. Also, provide your car insurance company with a copy of the accident report to review with your insurer.

Be careful about accepting any early settlement offers from your insurance company. Strongly consider talking to a car accident lawyer before agreeing to any settlement offers presented to you.

10. Document Everything

Document everything related to the accident. This includes medical reports, medical bills, communication with the insurance agent, lost wages if you missed work, and any other expenses and damages related to your injury. Document any impact on your daily life relating to injuries from the accident. These records prove the impact of the accident on your life.

11. Pay Attention to the Property Damage Estimation

Do not accept your insurance company’s assessment of the property damage to your vehicle if you disagree with it. Consider getting a few independent quotes for repair or replacement. Your attorney will help with a property damage valuation.

Having qualified legal representation is essential to recovering the maximum compensation possible. Healing from a motor vehicle accident is challenging enough. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to help you navigate the personal injury lawsuit.