If you have been in a car accident, the days following can be confusing and overwhelming. What should you do first? Should you go to the hospital? What about your car? How do you start the insurance claim process?
Here are the top six things to do immediately after a car accident:
Check Yourself For Injuries
The most important thing to do after a car accident is to check yourself for injuries. Even if you don’t feel like you’ve been injured, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor. Many injuries, such as whiplash, don’t show symptoms right away. If you are able to move, exit the vehicle but do not overwork yourself.
Assess the Situation
Once you’ve checked yourself for injuries, it’s time to assess the situation. Check to see if anyone else is injured and if there is any danger present, such as a fire. If it is safe to do so, move your car off of the road. If you are unable to move the car, stay in the car and wait for help to arrive.
Call the Police and File a Formal Report
The next step is to call the police and file a formal report. Even if the accident was minor, it’s important to have a record of what happened. The police will create a report that includes the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as the names and contact information of everyone involved.
Exchange Information With Other Drivers
In order to file an insurance claim, you will need to exchange information with the other drivers involved in the accident. This includes their name, address, phone number, insurance company, and policy number. Be sure to get the make and model of all vehicles involved in the accident. If you are able to, take pictures of the accident scene. This will help with the insurance claim process.
Seek Medical Attention
If you are injured, seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, like internal bleeding, may not have any symptoms in the early stages. It is important to get checked out by a medical professional to make sure you are okay.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
If you have been in a car accident, it’s important to contact a car accident attorney. They can help guide you through the insurance claim process and answer any questions you may have. For more information on what to do after a car accident, contact our law firm. We are here to help you get through this difficult time. Contact our law firm today at 937-918-7555 to get the legal help you deserve.
