A Guide on What to Do After a Car Accident
Death by way of car accidents increased to 42,060 in 2020 (39,107 in 2019). With millions of people on the road, this statistic isn’t shocking. As technology improves, hopefully, these numbers will decrease over time.
Not all car accidents are fatal of course. Some causes of car accidents include checking your phone, poor road conditions, drunk drivers, and speeding. Whatever the case may be, it’s important to know what to do after a car accident.
When you know the rules of the road, you’ll be that much more equipped as a driver. Read our guide below to learn how to handle this unfortunate event.
Check for Injuries
The first thing to do is immediately see if anyone is injured. If anyone is, call 911, which will get an ambulance and police on the scene. Please note, that calling the police is required by law in these states.
You don’t want to run the risk of anyone getting injured post-accident. To avoid any further damage, make sure everyone is pulled to the shoulder if vehicles are still operational. Set up flares or triangles to warn other drivers on the road.
Exchange Information
When learning what to do after a car accident, the next thing you should do is exchange information. You only need to provide your name and insurance information.
The additional information you may want to gather is a phone number, witness contact information, police report number, and police officer’s name and badge.
You don’t want to get into a full-on conversation with the only party because you run the risk of admitting guilt, blaming the other, or saying your insurance policy limits.
Document the Car Accident
An auto accident injury requires documentation. Take advantage of your smartphone in this situation and take plenty of photos. Document all damage on your car and the other’s drivers car.
Snap more photos of their license plate too. Jot down notes of what happened in fine detail (speed, road conditions, etc.). You could even draw a picture of how it happened from your perspective.
File a Car Accident Claim
When you get into a car accident, and you’re responsible, you need to file a claim. If it wasn’t your fault, you don’t have to. Call your insurer first and foremost.
You should be prepared to pay a deductible regardless. When you speak to your insurer, you’ll get a clearer picture of things. From there, contact croninlawfirm.com to speak to a personal injury attorney to understand your rights in this predicament.
Be Prepared: Know What to Do After a Car Accident
Now that you know what to do after a car accident, you’ll be a much better driver for it. No one wants to be in a car accident, but it’s best to be prepared just in case.
Practice safe driving every time you head out on the road. Your other drivers are counting on you. For more safety tips, be sure to browse our blog.