No one plans to have a car accident or even get injured in one, and they are typically caught unprepared and think that having insurance is enough, but that is not true. Whether you’ve had a major or minor car accident, you will need to take some steps to receive the kind of compensation you deserve.
Steps to Follow If You’ve Been in a Car Accident
Start by immediately calling 911
This is common sense, but sometimes when you have been in an accident, you may forget. A car crash can quickly leave you injured, and you must summon help immediately.
The tricky part is that you may not feel the injury, and some auto accidents injuries may take a few hours before they manifest.
This is why calling 911 is a must.
Secure the scene
Get rid of any vehicles from the road that may cause a hazard for other drivers, especially if you are on the highway.
If possible, take some photos of the scene before doing this so you can use them when needed to show evidence of the car accident. However, remember to be safe at all times.
Exchange information
If you have had a head-on collision or more than just your vehicle was involved in the minor car accident, you will have to ensure that you have exchanged information with the other driver, and this should be on the police report as well.
Document everything
If you are not severely injured, you should take time to thoroughly document the entire accident scene and take pictures and notes if possible.
Cooperate with law enforcement
When the police arrive, ensure to cooperate with them and answer all of their questions about the car crash. This is extremely important.
Seek medical attention
Even if you feel that everything is okay, you MUST see a doctor to get treatment, even for shock. This is the first step and should be taken seriously.
Injuries such as whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding are not usually immediately obvious, and prompt treatment is necessary to diagnose these conditions and start treatment.
Contact your insurer
Contact your insurer immediately, either at the scene of the car accident or after you get home. You may need to provide all of the details you collected at the car crash and any other documents they may require to help you with your car.
Speak to an attorney
It is highly recommended to speak to an attorney after you’ve been in a car accident as soon as you can. They will help evaluate your case and educate you on your rights.
In some cases, the other driver may have been at fault, or the car manufacturing company, or you could be at fault yourself, and you may be needing legal representation.