If you’ve just been in a car accident, this is a scary time. The aftermath of a collision can be hectic. What you do now matters, though – especially if you intend to file an insurance claim or lawsuit.
In this post, we’ll share our complete car accident checklist: what to do and what not to do after a crash. Learn how to protect yourself and your rights. Keep reading.
5 Things to do if You’re in a Car Crash
Keep your wits about you and do these five things right after the accident happens:
1. Make sure the scene is safe
The first concern is for the safety of everyone involved in the car crash. Take stock of yourself and the other people on the scene to assess injuries and make sure the surroundings are safe. Move damaged vehicles to the side of the road if you’re still in heavy traffic. If anyone appears to be injured – even a minor injury – it’s advised to ask for paramedics when you call the police.
2. Call the police
Even if the crash seems minor, contact the police (911) and wait for them to arrive. Having a police report in hand will make it easier to work with your insurance company later. Whatever you do, do not leave the crash scene without contacting the local police.
3. Exchange information with the other parties
Exchange phone numbers, contact information, and insurance information with the other party involved. Make sure you also document the other person’s driver’s license and license plate numbers. If the driver is not the owner of the car, note the car’s make, model, and color. If there are witnesses on the scene, get their names and contact information, as well. Comprehensive witness statements will streamline the process of filing an insurance claim.
As you speak with the other party, keep the conversation brief and constructive. Avoid anger or admitting fault, as this may harm your case down the road.
4. Document the evidence
Use your phone to snap some pictures of the crash scene. Photograph any damage to your car and the other vehicle involved. Also, be sure to document injuries and any damage to the surrounding scene, such as trees and road features.
5. Contact your insurance company
Filing a claim can take a long time, so it’s smart to start the process as quickly as possible. If you use an insurance company that offers a mobile app, start the claims process at the scene.
Next Steps: Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were injured during your car accident, the road to recovery can be a long one. Secure the representation you need by hiring a personal injury lawyer in Pensacola. Here at Ward and Barnes, our team of experienced personal injury attorneys will review your car accident case, help you navigate insurance, and ensure you get the claim you need to heal and move on with your life.
Contact us today to learn more about our team or services.