Car accidents can be a jarring and confusing experience. As difficult as it may seem in the moment, it’s important to try and remain calm while also getting all the correct information and determining what happened. We at NGK Law Firm understand that accidents can be scary, which is why we’ve provided crucial tips on what to do in the event you find yourself in a car accident.
Stop at the scene. Always stop at the scene of the accident, even if the situation seems minor. If you don’t need to call the police to report the accident, you still need to stop and exchange information with other drivers.
Try to get out of the road if possible. Using flares or keeping your hazard lights on to warn other drivers to proceed with caution. Wait in your vehicle while you wait for law enforcement officers to arrive.
Report the accident to the police. The best course of action after you’ve been in an accident is to call law enforcement officers to come out and document the incident. If medical attention is necessary, they can also call EMTs to the scene.
Describe the situation as accurately as possible. When the officers arrive, try to describe the accident as accurately as possible for the official police report. This report will give a clear picture of what occurred and will need to be used in insurance claims and potentially court if needed. If you’re unsure of any details, be very clear that you’re not certain. When officers ask if you’re injured, it’s always best to say, “I’m not sure,” initially (unless you are evidently injured), because car accident injuries are often not apparent until after the accident. Sometimes adrenaline and the chaos of the situation can distract from pain. Other injuries do not set in immediately, so it’s best to wait and reassess a few days after the accident.
Document any damage at the scene. After officers have arrived and taken down the necessary information, it’s a good idea to take photos of the accident and document any physical damage to both your car and the other vehicle. If you have any visible injuries, take photos of these as well. While photographs can be useful during an insurance claim or investigation down the line, do not interfere with police and only take photos if the situation allows for it.
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver (if another vehicle is involved in the accident). Typically, if the police are called to the scene of the accident, they will collect each driver’s information, but if the accident is minor (such as a small bump in a parking lot), you need to ensure that you ask the other driver for his or her information and provide yours as well. This should include basic contact info as well as the name of each person’s insurance company.
If the accident is reported to the police, the officer will provide all parties with a police report number, which will be used to access a copy of the police report.
Report the accident to your insurance company. The sooner you report the accident, the more quickly your claim can be resolved. Contact your insurance company in a timely manner to provide all the necessary information and paperwork. You will likely need a copy of the police report to send to your insurance provider. However, it is recommended that you consult with your attorney before speaking to your insurance company and providing a statement for their records. During this process, it is recommended that you check with your insurer to see if your coverage also includes Medpay, which will cover some of your medical expenses related to any injuries from the accident.
Seek medical attention if necessary. Even if you don’t have any blatantly obvious injuries after the accident, it’s important to check with a doctor. If you don’t want to use the ambulance service or visit the emergency room, you can visit your primary care doctor within a few days of the accident. Many people do not report even feeling the impact of car accident injuries until one to three days later, so it’s best to check for signs of a concussion, internal bleeding or other injuries.
Maintain your records. Throughout the investigation process, keep any and all records organized and in one place. Claim information, contact numbers for your insurance adjust and others involved in the accident, a copy of the police report, and any receipts for expenses related to the accident (including medical bills) should be kept in a designated file.
Consult your attorney. Though it is beneficial to get your claim in quickly, most insurance companies will want to take a statement as soon as you call to file your claim. It’s best to consult your attorney before giving information to the insurance company as your lawyer can help protect your rights, preserve potential evidence, and explain what kind of compensation you may be entitled to outside of fixing the damage to your vehicle.
NGK Law Firm is Here to Help
Our team of attorneys at NGK Law Firm have handled hundreds of car accident lawsuits. We know how to get you the compensation you deserve and protect your rights. Unexpected injury-related accidents can cause pain and suffering in addition to being a financial burden. We’re here to help you get the benefits you need to recover from your accident without it turning your life upside down. Contact our law office today to find out more.
