Personal Injury7 Steps to Take After a Car Accident
Car accidents are an unfortunate reality most of us will have to face at some point in our lives. If you are involved in a car accident, it's a good idea to have a game plan to follow during the stressful aftermath. Here are seven steps to take immediately afterwards to make the event as painless as possible.
- Be Safe -- If you are still driving, pull over to the side of the road. If your car is smoking, burning or leaking fuel get out. When doing so, remember to avoid traffic as best you can. You don't want to start another auto accident! The law also requires you to give reasonable assistance to anyone who is injured. This means you must remain at the scene and, if you are able, call an ambulance when needed. If you are trained in first aid and emergency procedures, you should render first aid and, if possible, transport any injured persons to a doctor or a hospital. Again, this is only if you are trained and able to do so.
- Calm Down -- Take a moment to calm your nerves. People can easily be on edge after a car crash, and it is important to not let annoyance, anger or fear make an already bad situation worse.
- Call the Police -- Law enforcement officers provide an objective report about the car accident for later records. They gather all of the known facts of the traffic accident and interview any potential witnesses. If there are safety concerns, they can help redirect traffic or contact the fire department. It is also a good idea to have them around in case you are dealing with an angry driver.
- Do NOT Admit Fault to Anyone -- What you say after the car accident can have an impact on your liability for the damages. If questioned, answer each question truthfully and to the best of your abilities. Do not, however, admit fault for the car accident, leave that for others to determine.
- Get the Other Driver's Information -- Even if the police come to make a report, it's a good idea to exchange driver's license and car insurance information with the other driver. This information can help protect you in the event of a lost or inaccurate report.
- Take Pictures -- If you have a camera or even a good cell phone, take some pictures of the intersection and the damage to the cars. This is the best time to collect evidence of the crash, and as they say, a picture is worth a thousand words.
- Call Your Car Insurance Provider -- It's a good idea to notify your car insurance company soon after the car accident. They will most likely call you or send you a questionnaire in the mail, and it's best to answer their questions early, so they can act as fast as possible.
Please see Automotive Consumer Help & Advice for more articles.
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