7 Important Steps to Do after a Car Accident
Whenever you’re driving, there’s a risk of being involved in a car accident. It’s a frightening experience especially when the crash is your fault.
Whether it’s a slightly broken taillight or one that leads to a major injury, knowing what to do can keep you prepared and help you make the right decision.
The experience of West Virginia car accident attorneys will help you through the legal process, protect your rights, and negotiate with insurance companies involved in your case. Visit this website for more information on car accident cases and how an attorney can help you.
7 Steps to Take after a Car Accident
No matter how cautious you are on the road, there’s still the probability of getting involved in a car crash. When you get into a car accident, there are steps you need to take to ensure that you and your passengers are safe. Whether you or the other party is at fault, it’s important to know what to do in a stressful situation.
- Stay calm and check if anyone is hurt
Check if you or the other passengers in your car are hurt. If you or your passengers have injuries, call 911 or ask someone to call an ambulance. If anyone’s seriously injured, try not to move. Ask for medical attention immediately and wait for the emergency personnel to arrive.
- Get to safety
If it’s safe for you to move or if your car is safe to drive, move your vehicle out of the roadway so it won’t block traffic. If your car is in a total wreck, leave it where it is. Get yourself and any passengers you have on the side of the road – and make sure not to leave the scene.
- Document the accident scene
Use your cell phone camera to take photos and videos of the accident. Make sure to take pictures of the damages in your car from multiple angles and its interiors. Take photos of the surrounding area, your injuries, every detail, and other items or situations you need for a police report.
- Talk to the other driver
If it’s safe and if you can do this calmly, talk to the other driver while waiting for the police. Avoid putting too much blame or expressing anger. Even if you’re at fault, refrain from making admissions. Let the police and insurance company determine who is at fault.
- Let responding officers take command
Informing the police is vital in a car crash. Let the police or any investigator document the scene and fill out an accident report. If the police can’t respond to the scene, go to the nearest station to notify the authorities and file a police report.
- Collect and exchange information
Exchange contact information and car insurance policy information with the other driver. Also obtain vehicle information, driver’s license, and license plate number. You can also take down the names of the witnesses and get their contact information.
- Notify your insurance company immediately
Contact your insurance provider while at the scene. This way, you’ll know what to do in filing an auto insurance claim and what to expect during the claims process. The insurance company can also arrange for your damaged car to be towed.
Get Help from a Car Accident Attorney
Even if it’s a minor car accident, an attorney can help fight for your rights. Understand that the accident isn’t just about the damage to your car. It has more to do with the injuries you sustained. A car accident injury lawyer is what you need to ensure a fair settlement for the pain and suffering you endure.
