Getting involved in any car accident, whether significant or minor, can be a terrifying experience. In the event of a car accident, it’s crucial to understand the steps to take to best protect yourself and your vehicle.
Things To Do After a Car Accident
Check Everyone’s Safety
The first and most important thing you need to do after a car accident is to ensure everyone involved is safe. Check yourself, your passengers and the other driver or passengers for injuries. If someone is injured, call an ambulance immediately. If you suspect someone has a head or neck injury, do not move them, as this could worsen the injury, and wait for medical assistance to arrive.
Call The Police
Even if the accident seems minor, it’s recommended to call the police. The police will make a report of the accident, which will be important for insurance purposes. If the other driver is at fault, the police report will help you file a claim with their insurance company. Additionally, if the other driver is uninsured, you may need a police report to file a claim with your insurance company.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver(s)
After making sure everyone is safe, exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. This information should include names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers and insurance information. This information is necessary to file an insurance claim and to determine who is at fault for the accident.
Document the Accident
After the accident, document everything that happened. Take photos of the scene, including the damage to your car and the other car(s) involved, as well as of any injuries you or your passengers sustained. If there were witnesses to the accident, ask them for their contact information, so they can provide a statement to your insurance company if needed. Keep all documents related to the accident, including the police report, medical bills and insurance documents.
If your car is not drivable after the accident, you will need to have it towed. Contact a reputable towing company, such as Banjo’s Anytime Towing, to tow your car to a repair shop or other location. A good towing company will have the necessary equipment to safely transport your car without causing any further damage.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, even if you aren’t at fault. Your insurance company will need to know the details of the accident to determine coverage for repairs and medical expenses.
Consider Hiring an Attorney
If you sustained serious injuries or the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may want to consider hiring a lawyer. A lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process of filing an insurance claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. They can also represent you in court if necessary.
