Over six million car accidents occur each year in the United States. If you are involved in an automobile accident, there are certain things you can do to protect yourself and your interests. The following is a list of the top ten things you should do if you are in an automobile accident:
Stay Put
Never drive away from the scene of an accident, even a minor one.
Protect The Scene
You can prevent further accidents by installing flares or keeping your flashers on. If it’s dark and your lights stop working, use a flashlight to keep you safe while you wait in your disabled car or by the side of the road.
Call The Police
Even if there are no severe injuries, it’s still important to call the police. You may need a police report to file a claim with your insurance company, even if you only claim damage to your vehicle.
Make an Accurate Record
When the police arrive, tell the investigating officers precisely what happened to the best of your ability. Do not speculate, guess, or misstate any of the facts. You’ll also want to ensure that statements made by others involved are accurate. If asked if you are injured and you are not sure, say you are not sure rather than no. Pain and injuries from motor vehicle accidents often appear hours after the collision.
Take Photographic Evidence
Make sure you take photos of any visible damages to your vehicle. If you have visible personal injuries, you should photograph them as well. If you cannot take pictures at the scene of the accident, take them as soon as possible after the accident.
Exchange Information
Typically, the investigating police officer obtains this information. If the police do not respond to the accident, make sure to get the name, address, and telephone number of all persons involved in the accident. You should also obtain information about insurance by asking to see the insurance card for all vehicles involved in the accident. If there are witnesses, you should also get information from them so that you or your attorney can contact them in the future. If police respond to the accident, the investigating officer usually will provide all drivers with a police report number. You can use that number later to obtain the police report.
Report The Accident to Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Many policies require immediate reporting and full cooperation. Find out if you have medical benefits as part of your insurance coverage. If you have medical coverage, you must submit your accident-related medical bills to your insurance company. Once these benefits are exhausted, private health insurance becomes your primary insurer. These benefits are available to all the occupants of the vehicle. Your insurance rates should not increase due to submitting claims for medical coverage.
Seek Medical Attention
Often, injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents are not immediately apparent. Most of our clients report feeling the most pain a day or two following an automobile accident. You should seek medical attention at your local emergency room or by seeing your family physician. You can sustain a severe and permanent injury even in accidents involving minor impacts.
Keep Detailed Records
Keep all your accident-related documents and information together. This information should include a claim number, the claims adjuster handling your claim, all contact names and phone numbers, receipts for a rental car, and other expenses incurred due to the accident.
Protect Your Rights
Perhaps the most important thing you should do after an accident is to consult an experienced attorney. The right attorney will protect your rights and ensure valuable evidence is not destroyed. Often, insurance companies want to take statements immediately after an accident. You must receive legal advice before providing such a statement. At The GC Law Firm, our experienced attorneys will advise you every step of the way. From issues ranging from compensation to obtaining the best medical treatment available, we are here to help. Contact us today!