Keeping your cool following a car accident will help you make smart decisions in an overwhelming situation. When you know what to do in the minutes following an automobile accident, you can help to speed up the clean-up and claims process and help to prevent additional injuries. Here are the things that you should and shouldn’t do after an accident occurs:
Do’s
- Clear vehicles off the road. If you are able to drive your vehicle, move it out of the flow of traffic. This can help prevent additional accidents.
- Contact 911 if you suspect there are injuries that need immediate medical attention.
- Call the police to the scene of the accident.
- Exchange information. You will need to share your name, contact information, insurance company, policy number, driver’s license number, and vehicle information. You also need to get this information from the other driver involved.
- Document the damage. Take detailed pictures of the vehicles involved. Also, record the weather conditions as well as the exact location of the accident.
- Contact your insurance provider to file a claim.
Don’t
- Move anyone who is injured. Wait for medical personnel to arrive.
- Get out of your vehicle until it is safe to do so.
- Leave the scene of the accident until you gather important information from the other driver.
Being in a car accident is not something that anyone plans to do, but when you know how to react afterwards it can make the situation a bit more bearable. If you have been in an accident and need legal assistance, contact us for your free consultation.