7 Things You Must Do After a Car Accident
Posted on: 7 October 2015
While some vehicle accidents only result in property damage, others cause deaths. Although being in a car accident can be quite scary, it is important to stay calm and take control of the situation. If you take the proper steps, you can improve the situation. Here are seven important things you must do after a car accident:
Make Sure Everyone is Okay
Before looking at the vehicle damage, it is very important to see if everyone involved in the accident is alright. If someone has a head injury, don't move him or her until help arrives. Common symptoms of a head injury include vomiting, loss of consciousness and dizziness.
Obtain Everyone's Information
Although it may feel uncomfortable at first, it is necessary to exchange information with everyone involved in the vehicle accident. Ask the other drivers for their full names, phone numbers, addresses and insurance information. Even if you think the car accident was another driver's fault, avoid getting confrontational. Getting angry and yelling will just escalate the situation. If you are polite with everyone, you will notice things can go a lot smoother.
Contact the Police
Calling the police is important, even if no one got seriously hurt. When they get there, you have the option of explaining your side of the story or saying nothing at all. If no one was hurt and there were only minor damages to the vehicles, Lawyers.com recommends explaining what happened to the police. Only state the facts and don't say you're sorry for anything. However, if you were at fault and someone got hurt, it is best to stay quiet and just give the police your driver's license and proof of insurance.
Take Photos
It is a good idea to take a few extra minutes to snap a few pictures of the accident scene. For example, if you take photos of the damage done to your vehicle, you have a better chance of getting compensated for it. You do not have to have a high-tech camera to take decent photos. Most cell phone cameras will be able to take very clear pictures of the accident.
Talk to Witnesses
Were there any witnesses present at the accident scene? If so, it is a good idea to stop them to ask for their contact information. For example, you could say something like, "I noticed that you witnessed the car accident. Would you mind providing me with your name and contact information?" If you end up making an insurance claim or taking your case to court, these witnesses can testify on your behalf.
Get Medical Care
Not all car accident injuries are obvious right away. That is why it is very important to see your doctor as soon as possible. He or she can examine your body for any signs of injury. For example, you could have damaged your spinal cord without even knowing it.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
If you or anyone else got hurt during the accident, you should make an appointment to see a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer knows all the ins and outs about car accident laws and can make the situation easier for you. For example, if you got injured during the accident, your lawyer can help you receive fair compensation in court. If you, however, were at fault, your lawyer could defend you. At least set up a consultation with a car accident lawyer to get his or her viewpoints. Most attorneys offer free consultations.
Being involved in a car accident can be quite hectic, but it does not have to be the end of the world. If you stay calm and follow these helpful tips, everything will be a lot easier for you. For more tips or assistance, contact firms like Speers Reuland & Cibulskis, P.C.
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