subject: Handling a Car Accident [print this page] Handling a Car Accident Handling a Car Accident
Dealing With a Car Crash
According to the U.S Census Bureau there have been over 10 million car crashes in the U.S. each year between 2004 and 2008. That's over 50 million car crashes in just a five year span. With numbers like that it is safe to assume that everyone will be affected by a car accident at some point in their lives. Everyone should know how to react to a car accident to make sure that the accident isn't anymore stressful and difficult than it needs to be.
Be Calm
This is the first thing you need to remember in the event of a car accident. This can be easier said than done. Car accidents can be very traumatic and staying calm may be the last thing on your mind. But be assured, staying calm is very important so that the accident can be documented properly and all information needed can be obtained.
Collecting Information
After a crash, if you are not seriously hurt, you will want to get as much information as you can. You will want to get the name, address and phone number of the other parties involved in the accident. You will also want to write down the name of their insurance provider, their policy number, their drivers license number and their license plate number. If the name of the driver is different than the name on the insurance policy of the vehicle you should write down the driver's name and relationship to the person whose name is on the policy. Write down where the accident took place and how it happened. When writing how the accident occured, or when explaining to police what happened you should be polite and be truthful, but don't admit fault for the accident even if you think you are at fault. This may benefit you if legal action is taken later by one of the other parties. You may also write down a description of the cars involved including the year, make, model and color.
You should also write down any damaged or missing items resulting from the crash. Some examples could be your cell phone, things in a wallet or a purse, glasses, or any other items you may keep in your car. You should also write down how you feel physically. Write down anything out of the ordinary as even small aches can become a more serious issue. If possible write down any relevant medical information for others involved in the accident.
In accidents more serious than a fender bender you will need to call the police and have them come to the location of the crash. When speaking to police ask about the traffic accident report. When police are involved in the more serious collisions traffic accident reports are required to be filed. Even if you accident is minor you might want to file an accident report with the state. Insurance companies use accident reports to file claims and if you've filed an accident report it can help to speed up the process of your insurance provider. Car accident reports are public record so write down the names and badge numbers of the officers assisting you, know where your accident report will filed, and be sure that you have a number to contact the precinct where the report will be filed.
Take Photos
If you have a camera you will want to take as many pictures of the crash as you can. You will want pictures of the damage to each vehicle and you will want to do your best to make the pictures show how the accident happened. You should write down the contact information of any witnesses so that they can be contacted if necessary later on. You will also want to take pictures of your injuries and date them. Keep taking pictures of your injuries while they heal and make sure to date them. This will be useful in dealing with insurance companies.
After the Accident
Documentation is just as important after leaving the scene of an accident. You should keep a record of any medical consults, and medical bills you receive. You should also keep track of the time you miss from work or from school due to the accident. Time you take off for medical treatment would be included as well. You should keep records of car repair estimates. Your insurance company might give a low estimate. If you think the estimate isn't right then go get one from a certified mechanic. Make sure to keep all the paperwork and bills regarding repairs to your vehicle. In addition you should keep track of any money you pay relating to injuries from your accident. This includes heating pads, bandages, child-care bills, rental cars, taxis, or even cancellation of a trip you had planned to take.
Contacting a Lawyer
Being represented by a personal injury attorney is a smart choice after an accident. Before signing any forms related to an accident you should get advice from a lawyer, especially if you do not understand the forms you are signing or are not comfortable signing something. The first offer from your insurance company might be less than you feel you deserve and you might think that your insurance company isn't providing you with what it should be. And if an accident is serious and you have to immediately go to the hospital you won't be able to document the incident at all. In these situations having a personal injury attorney is crucial. A personal injury attorney will talk with your insurance provider and make sure that you get the amount of money that you deserve. A good personal attorney will investigate your accident and even evaluate your injuries to make sure that they get you the best settlement that you can get. Car accidents can be very stressful and settling them can be a complicated process. Having a personal injury attorney will bring you peace of mind and help to reduce the stress of dealing with insurance companies after an auto accident.
