Car accidents cannot always be avoided, so it is of the utmost importance you know what to do in case you are involved in one. First and foremost, regardless of the accident’s severity or who caused it, it is your legal obligation to stop.
Undoubtedly, going through such an experience is nerve-wracking and stressful, to say the least. Nevertheless, as unpleasant as it might be, it is necessary you begin the necessary steps at the scene. Making sure everyone is safe and sound, or calling an ambulance, should be the top priority.
In addition, if you find yourself in such a situation, and especially if a vehicle collision happens to no fault of your own, there are specific extra steps you need to follow. Doing the right things will help you start the process of claiming compensation, as you are entirely eligible to do so.
Hopefully, you won’t have to go through this experience. However, if this happens, it is best to be as prepared as possible.
Without further ado, here’s what you need to do if you have been involved in a car accident:
Check for any possible injuries
Once you have stopped the car immediately after the accident, make sure you and your passengers are not harmed. It is essential to remain calm and check whether there are any visible injuries. In case you or another person have been hurt more severely, it is crucial not to move until medical professionals arrive at the scene.
Seek medical assistance
Whether you only have a minor injury or have been harmed more seriously, it is crucial you seek medical assistance. A noteworthy mention is to call an ambulance right away if the injury requires immediate attention. If there is something minor, you might be able to wait and seek professional help from a doctor afterward. This way, you can document the accident and build your compensation claim.
Call the police
If you are uninjured or have suffered mild injuries and are in good condition to call the police, you should do so. If the collision happened with no fault of your own and the damage is significant, it might be necessary to have them on the scene. Plus, in some states, this is a legal requirement.
Gather evidence
When you are involved in a car accident for which you weren’t responsible, it is vital you protect yourself and gather the needed evidence. Having this will help your compensation claim a great deal. When you contact the auto accident lawyer, you will be prepared to start the process. The evidence needed includes:
- Photographs of the accident;
- Witness statements and their contact details;
- A copy of the accident report from the police.
Exchange information
If the accident is not too severe and both drivers involved are injured, it is crucial you exchange driver information such as contact details, insurance companies, license plate numbers.
A highly important detail is not to discuss the cause of the accident and who was at fault. It is recommended you let professionals, like the police, insurance representatives, and personal injury lawyers, when you file the compensation claim. Based on the evidence gathered, fault will be determined.
