subject: What You Should Do Immediately if You're in a Car Accident [print this page] What You Should Do Immediately if You're in a Car Accident
As a personal injury attorney I work with a lot of people who have been in a car accident. If you've ever been involved in a car accident you know it can be scary. Many people panic, which is understandable. However there are a couple of steps that everyone should take after a car accident, regardless of if you think you're hurt or not.A lot of people know to keep track of certain expenses but don't know what to record at the scene of the accident. If you don't get the right information it could ruin any potential suit you may have. It helps to be familiar with what information you should collect.Immediately After the CrashFirst off, calm down. If possible get your car off the road and somewhere safe. Then turn on your emergency lights. Call the police. Do not offer an apology. Although it is polite, apologizing might make the other driver think you're at fault. Even though it is polite, the insurance company and the other driver may use it against you later. You should however make sure the other driver (and passengers in both cars) is okay.Record EVERYTHINGThose intense moments right after the crash can blur together later, making it hard for you to give a clear picture of what happened. This is why it helps to record everything. After you call the police write down the other driver's information. You should get their names, insurance info, the model and make of their vehicle, and their license plate number. If there were any witnesses be sure to get some basic contact info from them as well. When the police arrive get the officer's information too. Name, badge number, department, etc.If you have a digital or cell phone camera start taking pictures as soon as possible. Get pictures of all sides of the vehicle, license plates, the accident scene in general, etc. Then if possible sketch a diagram of what happened with the accident.The final thing you should record are your injuries. Your medical records will be recorded by your medical provider. You need to keep track of all your medical records and all receipts. If you didn't go to the ER after being hurt in accident make sure you still see your primary physician as soon as you can. There are injuries that may not even start occurring until up to two weeks after the accident. This is a lot of information, but it's important information. Keeping clear and accurate records makes dealing with the insurance companies a lot easier.
