Thousands of people get injured in car accidents every year. It is possible to forget how to react due to the frustration and panic after an accident. That is why there are “etiquette tips” you must keep in mind, and you must call an experienced auto accident attorney. Your attorney will protect your rights and guide you through your insurance claim. 

Check for Injuries

Assessing your own injuries and the injuries of the people injured is the most important thing to do after an accident. Ensure all the victims are conscious and breathing. After doing this, check on the other victims. Make sure everyone, involved in the accident, is okay. 

Call Law Enforcement

You must report the accident, so call 911 as soon as possible. Once the police arrive, they will secure the scene. Get the information of the passengers and drivers, and investigate the crash. Once they generate paperwork, ask for copies of the paperwork. The paperwork includes the accident report. 

Use Hazard Lights or Move Your Car 

Every accident is different, so this is a judgement call. In general, move your car to the side of the road if you can safely move it. Put on flashing hazard lights and road flares as you wait for an emergency crew to arrive if you cannot safely move the vehicle. Do not move your vehicle if you cannot move it safely. 

Exchange Information

If possible, write down the name, contact information, and insurance information of the other driver. However, some drivers may not give you this information. Wait for the police to arrive if that is the case. 

Do Not Assign or Admit Fault

You are still in a state of shock immediately after an accident. That is why you can put the blame on the other driver or say, “I’m so sorry” or even admit fault. Do not say anything about fault. Why? Fault requires skilled investigation, so let professionals determine the party at fault. Professionals will examine the evidence and the scene to determine fault. For more information on what to do you can learn more on this site.

To add to these five tips, ensure you: 

Take pictures. Take a few pictures of the wreckage if it is safe to take photos. Do not forget to take the photos of the damages, the plates of the other vehicle, and helpful images of the scene, such as traffic lights and stop signs.  

Seek medical attention immediately. You must get evaluated as soon as possible, so see your regular doctor or go to the hospital immediately after the crash. A doctor will diagnose and treat your injuries promptly. Documenting your injuries will help preserve your right to file a claim. 

Contact your insurance company. Some people avoid telling their own insurance company about the accident, especially if the other driver was at fault. They know they are not at fault, so they do not bother to contact their insurance. You have a contract with your insurance company, so do not make this mistake. The language on your insurance policy requires you to contact your insurance company. Also, you can get additional benefits that will help with your claim. However, you can lose these benefits if you do not contact your insurance company.