Road accidents claim 1.25 million lives a year and injure many others. While no one wants to be in an accident, you better know exactly what to do just in case it happens to you. With careful thinking, you can do your part well so that your car accident attorney will thank you as you work hand in hand in settling your case. Here are 10 things to do after a car accident
1. Call the police.
Even if you think the accident is minor, call the police. This is important because the police will help you document the accident. You will need this if the damage turns out to be more serious than it appears. This will also protect you if the other people involved make up false stories to get themselves off the hook.
2. Collect evidence.
If you have a camera, take photos of the accident. Take photos of the damages from different angles. Talk to any witnesses and get their contact information. Carefully check the police report if it is accurate. If there are discrepancies, make sure these are corrected immediately.
3. Get checked.
Just like your car, you may initially feel fine but later realize that you actually did sustain injuries. So, do not conclude and say you are fine after a vehicular accident. It just might be the shock or the rush of adrenaline that is keeping you from feeling any pain. Instead, just say you do not need emergency attention.
If you do need medical attention right after the incident, be sure to detail all your symptoms to the EMS when they arrive. Otherwise, get yourself checked at the ER. If symptoms surface days or weeks after the accident, consult your doctor.
4. Don’t assume.
You might think the accident was your fault, and you might want to admit it right away. However, remember that you are only one side of the story. The investigation may prove otherwise. Prematurely admitting that it was your fault before the results of the investigation are in may damage your case if you go to court.
5. Exchange insurance details.
Exchange insurance details with the other driver, even if you think the damage is very minor. Get their name, contact number, license number, and their car model and make.
6. Call a lawyer.
Even if you have insurance, you might still need a lawyer to do your paperwork if you will be claiming compensation. A car accident attorney knows everything you will need, saving you time and money in the long run.
7. Call the insurance firm.
Even if you think your accident is minor, call the company anyway. You may be able to claim compensation.
8. Know what rights you have.
As a driver, you should know your rights in case of an accident. Know what you are entitled to so that you can claim what you rightfully deserve.
9. Wait before you settle.
In many cases, speedy settlements offer you less than what is really due to you. Wait to see if any problems in your car or your health surfaces days or weeks after the accident. This way, you can be sure that your claim will cover if there will be any long-term effects.
10. Call your lawyer.
Calling your lawyer will help you a lot, especially when your case is a difficult one to settle. Ask for legal advice from your lawyer.
Conclusion
Always remember these tips, so you know exactly what to do when you get involved in road accidents. It’s also important for you to calm down. Accidents may be traumatic, but you’ll need to keep your composure to be able to get things right as you seek help from authorities.
