Automobile accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. If you are in a car crash, stay calm and follow these important steps to protect yourself and any passengers that might be with you.
Step 1: Seek medical treatment
In the time immediately following an accident, the stress and adrenaline of the situation can mask your pain from injuries you sustained. Get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible, especially if you hit your head or if you see blood. Minor injuries may indicate much more serious problems that can show up later. Contact the police to report the accident, even if you were able to drive yourself home.
Step 2: Exchange information
It is important to exchange insurance and contact information with all those involved in the accident. Try to get the following information:
- Names and phone numbers of all drivers and passengers involved, as well as any witnesses
- State and license numbers of the drivers involved
- License plate numbers of all vehicles at the scene
- Insurance information
When exchanging this information, be polite, but do not admit fault even if you believe that you may be to blame. There may be factors involved that you do not realize immediately following an accident.
Step 3: Write down what happened and take photos
As soon as you can after the accident If there are witnesses on scene, talk to them about what they saw happen. Take pictures of your vehicle, other vehicles and any permanent structures that were involved. Include a photo of the entire scene. Find out from locals if accidents occur frequently in that location, and obtain a copy of the police report. Gathering information from locals and witnesses plus having photos of the damage will provide evidence should your attorney have to negotiate a settlement or take your claim to court.
Step 4: Notify your insurance company
Even when you believe the accident was not your fault, it is still important to notify your insurance company. Let them know what happened and report any injuries you sustained in the accident no matter how minor.
Step 5: Get help from a lawyer
It is important to take the right steps after an automobile accident and learn about your rights. Contact an experienced and skilled personal injury attorney at the law firm of Bruno & Bruno to learn more about your rights to compensation for your losses.