Top 10 Things to Do After a Car Wreck
What you do after a car wreck can make all the difference. Here are the top 10 steps to take if you’re involved in a crash:
Check for Injuries
Your safety comes first. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.
Move to Safety if Possible
Make sure you and anyone involved in the wreck are in a safe location as soon as possible. If the vehicles involved don’t interfere with the flow of traffic, you’ll want to leave them where they are until the police arrive. If you are able, turn on your hazard lights so that other drivers are aware of the crash.
Call the Police
Not only will police assist with the wreck itself, but they will also create a police report. Always get an official police report, even for minor accidents. The report is a critical piece of evidence, and also contains vital information that will assist in filing and processing your claim. Before the police leave, make sure you obtain the police report number. This number is needed in order to obtain the police report when it becomes available.
When speaking to the police, be sure to tell the investigating officer exactly what happened as you remember it. Avoid telling certain facts you don’t know, and do not attempt to speculate or make assumptions of what happened.
If the officer asks you if you’re injured and you don’t know, tell that to the officer. Avoid saying you aren’t injured just because you don’t feel any pain. It’s common for accident victims not to feel the pain of injuries sustained for hours, days, or even weeks following a traumatic accident.
Document the Scene
Take photos and videos of all four corners of the vehicles (inside and outside if possible), any injuries, road conditions, skid marks, broken glass, and traffic signs.
Make sure you take the time to properly focus your shots. Shots that are out of focus are of minimal value to your claim.
Exchange Information
Get the names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, insurance information, and license plate numbers of all people and vehicles involved. If you can get front and back pictures of the other driver’s insurance card information and driver’s license, these photos will significantly assist your claim.
Collect Witness Statements
If anyone saw the wreck and was not involved, ask for their contact information and a brief statement. Witnesses can be key to your claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Some injuries aren’t obvious right away. It can take hours, days, or even weeks for the pain of your injuries to become present after being involved in a traumatic car accident. Get checked by the medical professional of your preference as soon as possible.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Most insurance policies require that you notify them if you’re involved in an accident. Keep in mind that you are not required to provide an official statement about the accident over the phone. You have the option to submit your statement in writing, or you may even have your attorney provide your statement for you.
Keep Records Organized
Save all medical bills, repair estimates, time off of work, and all related documents concerning your claim. A well-kept set of records will greatly strengthen your case.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Insurance companies protect their bottom line. Your attorney can help you avoid making costly mistakes when processing your claim with the insurance company and help you receive full compensation for your claim. Personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t incur any legal fees unless the attorney recovers compensation for you.
