Car crashes are frightening and often result in serious injury or even death. Did you know that taking care of yourself after a car crash is everything? From watching for signs of concussion to getting estimates from your insurance carrier.
Many people either do not realize that they need to take specific steps after an accident or do not know what those steps are. To help you out, we have gathered the top steps that need to be taken after a car crash.
Put these steps into practice and you will know what to do after a car accident.
1. Move Your Car Off the Road
After a car crash, the first thing you should do is move your car off of the road. If you can, safely move your car to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot. Once you are off the road, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
If you can’t move your car, stay in your car with your seatbelt fastened and wait for help. When getting out of your car, be very careful. Watch for oncoming traffic and stand away from the road. Once you are in a safe location, call the police.
2. Check for Injuries
It is important to check for injuries. If someone is injured, call 911 and ask for medical help.
If no one is injured, move the vehicles off the road if possible and turn on the hazard lights. See a doctor even if you don’t think you’re injured. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be immediately apparent.
3. Call for Help
Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. If you are able to do so, provide the operator with your location, the number of people involved in the accident, and the nature of any injuries.
4. Exchange Information
It is important to stay calm after a car accident and assess the situation. If you are able, exchange information with the other driver, including insurance information. This includes your name, address, phone number, and insurance information.
You should also try to get the other driver’s information if possible. If there are any witnesses, you should get their information as well.
5. File a Police Report
It is important to file a police report in order to document the accident. This will help to ensure that all the facts are accurate and that both parties are held accountable.
Filing a police report will help protect your legal rights and could potentially result in insurance benefits. You will need this to be able to file a claim with your car insurance company.
6. Hire an Attorney
An attorney will help you understand your legal rights and options, and will fight for you to receive the compensation you deserve. They will also handle all of the paperwork and communication with the insurance companies so that you can focus on healing and moving on with your life. Go to usaccidentlawyer.com for a car accident lawyer.
What Not to Do After a Car Crash
To avoid legal consequences and suffering further injury, here are the things not to do after a car crash.
Don’t Leave the Scene of the Accident
It is important to stay at the scene of the accident. Do not leave the scene of the accident, as this is a crime in many states.
It is important to exchange information with the other driver and to get the contact information of any witnesses. If you leave the scene of the accident, you may be liable for a hit and run, which can result in severe penalties.
Don’t Admit Fault
Remain calm and do not admit fault. This can be used against you later on and you may end up paying for damages that weren’t your fault.
You should also avoid talking to the other driver’s insurance company until you have spoken to your own. You don’t want to give them any information that could be used against you.
Don’t Forget to Exchange Insurance Information
Be sure to exchange insurance information with the other driver involved. This is crucial in order to begin the process of filing a claim.
Don’t Forget to Call the Police
If you are injured, or if there is significant damage to either car, it is important to call the police. The police will create a report, which will be useful if you need to file an insurance claim.
If the police are not called, it may be difficult to prove that the accident occurred, and who was at fault. If the damage is minor and everyone can exchange information, you may not need to call the police.
Don’t Ignore Your Injuries
Do not try to tough out and ignore your injuries. Bumps and bruises may seem minor, but they can be indicative of more serious injuries. If you are involved in a car accident, err on the side of caution and see a doctor to get checked out.
How to Prevent Car Accidents
Most car accidents are preventable if drivers would take more responsibility for their actions on the road. Speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, and fatigued driving are all major contributing factors to car accidents. By following the basic rules of the road and using common sense, drivers can prevent most car accidents.
Always obey the speed limit and drive according to the conditions of the road. Never drive while distracted, whether that means using a cell phone, eating, or changing the radio station.
Never get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or taking drugs. Make sure you are well rested before driving, and take breaks if you feel tired.
Recovery From Car Accidents
After a car crash, it is important to take the following steps discussed in this article. Call the police, exchange insurance information, take pictures, get medical attention, and consult with an attorney. If you take these steps, you will be in a better position to recover damages for your injuries and damage to your vehicle.
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