Car crashes are unexpected and can be a traumatic experience for anyone involved. Even the most experienced drivers can find themselves in a car crash. While it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to prevent car accidents, such as following traffic rules and regulations, wearing seat belts, and avoiding driving under the influence, accidents can still happen. If you find yourself in a car crash, there are ten important steps you should take to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights.
Assess the Situation and Check for Injuries
The first thing to do after a car crash is to assess the situation and check for injuries. Check yourself for any injuries, and if you have any passengers, make sure they’re okay too. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately and request an ambulance. Don’t move an injured person unless it’s absolutely necessary, as moving them may make their injuries worse.
If no one is injured, move your car to a safe location away from traffic, if possible. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that there has been an accident. If your car is not movable, stay in your car with your seatbelt on and wait for help to arrive.
Call the Police
After checking for injuries and moving your car to a safe location, the next step is to call the police. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s essential to report it to the police. The police will document the accident and create the official incident reports, which you’ll need later for insurance purposes. These reports will also be helpful if there’s a legal dispute over who’s at fault. If the accident happens in Ohio, you can easily access the OSHP accident reports online after they have been filed.
When the police arrive, provide them with the necessary information, including your driver’s license, registration, and insurance information. Be truthful about what happened but don’t admit fault or apologize, as this may be used against you later.
Exchange Information
After calling the police, exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Get their name, phone number, address, and insurance information. Also, write down the make and model of their car, their license plate number, and the location of the accident.
If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their names and contact information as well. Witnesses can be helpful in proving fault or providing additional details about the accident.
Document the Accident Scene
Documenting the accident scene can help you remember the details of the accident and can be useful if there’s a legal dispute. Take photos of the damage to your car, the other cars involved, and the surrounding area. Also, take photos of any skid marks or debris on the road.
If there were any injuries, take photos of them as well. Make notes about the weather, the time of day, and any other details you remember about the accident. This information can be useful when you’re filing an insurance claim.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Provide them with the necessary information, including the accident report, the other driver’s information, and any photos or documentation you have of the accident. Be truthful about what happened, but don’t admit fault or apologize.
Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process and let you know what your policy covers. They may also recommend a repair shop or rental car company.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s essential to seek medical attention after a car crash. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and it’s crucial to get checked out by a medical professional to ensure that you’re okay.
If you have any pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to go to the emergency room or urgent care clinic. Keep all of your medical records, including bills and receipts, as they will be necessary when filing an insurance claim. If you do have injuries, be sure to follow up with any recommended treatment, including physical therapy or follow-up appointments.
Keep a Record of Expenses
Car crashes can be costly, and it’s important to keep a record of any expenses related to the accident. This includes medical bills, car repairs, rental car costs, and any other expenses you incur as a result of the accident.
Keep all receipts and bills organized in a file, as you may need them when filing an insurance claim or if there’s a legal dispute. It’s also a good idea to keep a record of any missed work or lost wages due to the accident.
Be Careful with Social Media
In today’s digital age, it’s easy to share everything on social media. However, after a car crash, it’s essential to be careful about what you post on social media. Insurance companies and lawyers may use your social media posts against you, so avoid posting anything about the accident or your injuries.
Also, avoid posting any photos or status updates that show you engaging in physical activities or doing things that could be perceived as contradictory to your injuries.
Contact an Attorney
If you’re involved in a severe accident or if there’s a legal dispute over who’s at fault, it’s a good idea to contact an attorney. An experienced auto accident attorney can help you understand your legal rights and can guide you through the legal process.
They can also help you negotiate with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary. Be sure to choose an attorney who specializes in car accident cases and has a good track record of success.
Take Care of Yourself
Lastly, it’s essential to take care of yourself after a car crash. Even if you don’t have any physical injuries, car crashes can be traumatic, and it’s important to take care of your mental health as well.
Talk to a therapist or counselor if you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or other emotional issues. Also, take time to rest and recover from the accident. Don’t rush back to work or normal activities until you’re fully recovered. By following these steps, you can navigate the aftermath of a car crash with confidence and peace of mind.
Kerry L. Tucker
Early in his journalism college years, Kerry L. Tucker had a revelation: there were not nearly enough law communicators. Peoples’ difficulties in understanding the law, procedures, and how the justice system worked stemmed from the fact that no one took the patience to explain complicated matters to them. Therefore, he took upon him the task of helping people navigate legal matters easier. He works with attorneys and other legal journalists, and spends time doing research so that everyone – from a mother whose child got a bike injury to a company needing insurance counsel – to find the actionable answers they are looking for.
