Car accidents are often unexpected and can leave you feeling disoriented and stressed. When they happen, however, it is important to take immediate steps to ensure your safety and to begin the insurance claim process. So, here’s what you should do immediately after an accident.
What Should You Do Immediately After a Car Accident?
Within the past three years, the number of fatal car crashes per day in the U.S. averages 114. This shows that car accidents are a regular occurrence, and people need to know the right steps to take if they ever find themselves in one. Here are the first steps to take immediately after a car accident:
Prioritize Safety
After a car accident, the first thing you need to do is ensure everyone is safe. Stop the car, and if possible, move to a safe location away from traffic and close to the accident scene. Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers and check for injuries on yourself and other passengers.
If you or anyone has suffered a serious injury, call 911 for medical assistance immediately. In the case of any injuries or significant damages from the accident, consider consulting with an LA auto injury attorney. They can assess the strength of your case and guide the best legal strategies to protect your rights.
Call the Police
The next most important thing to do is to call the police, even for seemingly minor incidents. In some states, it is even legally required. When they arrive, cooperate with them and provide all the required information.
A police report will be filed, which will serve as an official event record and can be important for insurance claims.
Exchange Information
While waiting for the police to show up, communicate with the other involved party to exchange the following important information:
- Full name
- Address
- Phone number
- Insurance information
Document the Accident
The next thing to do is document all the accident details you can. Take photos of the accident scene, capturing the car damage from different angles. Additionally, you should document:
- Color and model of the vehicle
- License plate number
- Location of the accident
- Direction both cars were traveling
- Road signs or signal
- Weather conditions
- Name and badge number of responding officers
- Copy of the accident report
Doing this will provide the evidence to deal with legal post-accident consequences.
Notify Your Insurer
If you have insurance coverage, contact your insurance company immediately, preferably at the accident scene. Find out everything they need to process your claim and provide them with the information.
Related Questions
Can I Get Insurance After a Car Accident?
Yes, you can get insurance after a car accident. However, the insurance won’t cover the accident that just happened. This is because insurance coverage does not extend into the past. So, if you have an accident without insurance coverage, you must pay for all damages and injuries yourself.
Should I Document Damage in a Minor Car Accident?
You should document damage, even in a seemingly minor car accident. Take photographs of the damage to both vehicles and exchange information with the other party involved. This will serve as evidence for you if you discover more damage later on or if a dispute arises between you and the other party.
Will My Insurance Rates Go Up After a Car Accident?
If the accident was not your fault, your rates may not increase, especially if you have a safe driving history. However, your rates will likely increase if the accident is your fault. Other factors influencing the rates include the accident’s severity, damage amount, and any resulting claims.
Conclusion
Taking immediate action after a car accident is important to document evidence and protect your rights. By following these steps and consulting with an auto injury attorney, you can navigate the legal process more effectively and increase your chances of a successful insurance claim.