Getting into a car accident can be frightening and it can be difficult to remember what to do in the aftermath. Here are four things you need to do after a car accident.
1. Contact an Attorney
In some cases, you’ll need to contact an attorney after an accident. The most common reason for seeking legal counsel after an accident is when you’ve been injured and are seeking personal injury compensation or help with medical bills. Many people file personal injury lawsuits when they have been injured by someone else driving irresponsibly or riskily. Remember, the lawyer you work with will depend on where you live. For example, if you live in Brooksville, Florida, you might search online for car accident lawyer Hernando County FL.
2. Exchange Insurance Information
You and the other driver should exchange insurance information so you can file accurate insurance claims. Take pictures of any damage to both cars. Give the other drivers involved your vehicle and driver information, including driver’s license number, insurance and registration, phone number and name and address. Make sure the other drivers give you their information as well. Check whether the names of the other drivers match the cars’ registrations. If they don’t make sure you find out the relationships between drivers and the vehicles’ owners.
3. Check for Injuries and Get out of Danger
You should stay at the scene of the accident until the proper authorities arrive. If you’re able to move, check yourself and any other people involved for injuries. Provide basic first aid if necessary. If your car is able to be moved, try to get it out of the flow of traffic. If you’re able to turn on the hazard lights, do so. If you’re worried your car is dangerous, get a safe distance away from it.
4. Call the Police
The police should always be contacted after a car accident. All accidents need to be reported, though only major collisions, typically involving injuries or traffic obstruction, may require a physical response. If an officer responds to the scene, get his or her contact information, badge number and a copy of the accident report. If no officers are required, request a copy from the police department.
Keep in mind, the things you need to do and the order in which you need to do them will depend on the severity of the accident. You’ll always need to file an insurance claim, but you won’t always need a car accident lawyer. If you or another party is injured, getting medical attention will take precedence over all else.
