Hearing a screech and a clang is synonymous with a car accident. This can suddenly change your life. Suddenly, you get yourself sitting in a car, the next moment you are caught by the whirlwind of confusion, fear, and uncertainty.
This article proves to be a detailed guide and must include all actions to be taken after making a car accident. Safety and legal rights and obligations are given a priority.
Immediate Actions After a Car Accident
Your focus needs to be safety first. There are certain legal duties to follow. Knowing what to do immediately after a wreck can protect you.
Examine for Injuries and Call for Help
First, examine yourself for injuries. Next, check other occupants in your vehicle and in vehicles involved. Are people injured? Call 911 right away. Tell them where you are, and be specific about the injuries.
Do not move any injured persons unless an immediate hazard is upon them; movement can aggravate their injury. Wait for paramedics to arrive.
Secure the Scene and Exchange Information
If possible, move vehicles from traffic. This will avert a second crash. Turn on hazard lights. These warn other drivers. Set up warning devices like cones or flares.
Next, exchange information with other drivers involved. Get their names and contact information. Also, you’ll need their insurance details. Note down their vehicle registration information too. What do you do if another driver doesn’t help or leaves? Gather their license plate number and description. Inform the police about your findings.
Documenting the Scene: Photos and Notes
Photos are super useful. They can help tell what happened. Get photos of the license plates involved. Note any road conditions. Document the traffic signals and visible injuries. Pictures of the accident scene as a whole are useful too.
Use your smartphone to take clear pictures. Notes are important too. Write what you remember. Do it while fresh in your mind. This helps you remember later.
Reporting the Accident
According to law, you have to report any wrecks to the authorities concerned. It is important to know when to report it. This section takes you through reporting the incident.
When and How to Notify the Police
Sometimes, the police need to be notified after an incident. Did someone get hurt? Was there major property damage? Hit and run? If so, the police must come.
Provide an accurate account of the events to the police. Be honest about what happened, and do not speculate. You are able to obtain a copy of the police report. Just ask the officer how to do it.
Intimating Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the crash. Delays would only create problems. Tell them what all you know.
When calling them, tell them how it happened but do not mention everything; nor do you have to accept liability. Stick to the facts. Saying “I’m sorry” could be seen as you taking blame.
Seeking Medical Attention
The fact that you feel okay does not preclude a visit to the doctor. Some injuries may not manifest immediate symptoms. Getting checked out is a protection for your health and your claim.
Why You Should See A Doctor Even If You Feel Okay
Whiplashes and concussions may not incur pain until much later; their symptoms may show up days or weeks later. A doctor may find such unwrinkled issues.
Medical records are always essential for any claim. Every claim needs to prove that you were injured. This is to help provide evidence for insurance or any legal basis.
Evidence of Medical Treatment
Keeping track of all medical visits is mandatory. Note each and every treatment provided. Keep all medical bills and receipts.
Acquire copies of your medical records. You may find out how to get them from your doctor’s office. These are central to the case.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
You might have a claim for damages after the car crash. Talking with an attorney would clarify that situation. They could identify what your rights are.
When to Consult with an Attorney for Car Accidents
If you’re injured much worse than ‘just bruises,’ you need to talk to a lawyer. What does it mean if the other party contests fault? What does it mean if the insurance does not pay? If a death has happened, it’s time to obtain an attorney.
The lawyer ensures that your rights are protected. They will negotiate against the insurance company. They will file a lawsuit when necessary.
What Damages Can You Recover?
Compensation is available for various expenses. That includes medical expenses and loss of wages. What about damage to property? You could be compensated for physical pain, emotional suffering, or anxiety.
The amount of the compensation depends on many things. An attorney can evaluate your case. They will tell you what compensation you might be entitled to.
Dealing with Insurance
Dealing with insurance can be difficult. If you understand the process, you can safeguard yourself from their tactics.
Understanding the Claims Process
First, a claim is filed. After that, the insurance company investigates. Last are negotiations about settlement. And if no settlement is agreed upon, a lawsuit can be filed.
Protect Yourself Against Insurance Company Tactics
Do not give a recorded statement unless you talk to a lawyer first.
Negotiate to get what you deserve. Know your worth. Be willing to fight for it.
Conclusion
Start with what to do immediately after an accident; these are very important steps. Your first priority should be safety. Prepare an accident report when needed. Seek medical attention as soon as possible-the understanding of legal options is very important.
