While some car accidents involve only vehicle damage, many result in injuries and even more serious consequences, like fatal injuries. During this emergency, your mind shouldn’t go blank thinking, “What to do after an auto accident?”
You need to act proactively. You should be aware of things you can do to ensure your safety and protect your interest. Here’s a list of the top six things you need to do after a car accident.
Following an auto accident, the first thing to do is ensure your safety, then call the police.
Even if you think your injuries are only minor, or there is only vehicle damage, calling the police is a good idea because your insurance company will ask for a police report to file a claim.
Unless they are hindering traffic, make sure vehicles involved in the collision remain at their original position.
When police start their investigation, make sure you reveal all details correctly. If you don’t know something, don’t guess, speculate, or misstate it.
It’s also important to note that injuries from your accident often become apparent after an hour or more. If you aren’t sure about your injuries, don’t say you were not injured.
Make sure the other party involved does not mislead investigating officers by giving false information.
If there is visible damage, take pictures of all vehicles involved in the collision. Also, if you have visible injuries, photograph them.
You should report the accident to the insurance company as soon as possible. Their policies may require you to immediately report and cooperate to the best of your ability.
Know if your insurance covers medical benefits. If it does, you will have to submit your medical bills to the insurance company.
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, don’t announce you are not injured unless you are absolutely certain you are not.
If you’re not sure, you should consider seeking medical attention at a local emergency room or consulting your family doctor. Even if the accident and apparent injuries are minor, it can certainly have an impact on your spinal cord. It’s always best to get yourself checked by a physician.
In case you were unconscious or dazed after the accident, it may be a sign of a head injury or concussion. If you don’t treat it immediately, injuries could result in further cognitive and behavioral changes.
Please note, your insurance company may ask for your statement right after the accident. Before you give a statement, you need to make sure you have obtained legal advice from your attorney.
Your lawyer can guide you on issues, including your compensation for your vehicle and accessibility to quality medical treatment. Personal injury lawyers don’t charge any legal fee unless they are able to recover compensation for your injuries.
To make the process seamless and hassle-free, make sure you get the services of a qualified attorney after your car accident. Shani O. Brooks P.C. is a leading personal injury law firm dedicated to helping clients get just treatment and maximum compensation for their injuries after an auto accident.