We rarely anticipate the jarring reality of car accidents until they happen. It can be overwhelming, with documentation, legal processes, and the possibility of medical care.
Car crashes are prevalent, with an average of 4.7 million passenger accidents yearly. So, knowing what to do after a car accident is crucial. Being prepared can help you prioritize your safety and protect your legal rights. Awareness can also turn a potentially overwhelming situation into a manageable one.
Pike Law will provide a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this challenging time by going over what to do after a car accident. We’ll cover everything from after-crash procedures to filing a claim with a car accident lawyer.
1. Stay Calm and Keep Safety First
When it comes to what to do after a car accident, always put safety first. Immediately after the car crash, be sure to remain calm and assess your surroundings. If necessary, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further motor vehicle accidents.
Next, assess yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately for medical assistance.
2. Seek Medical Attention
If you sense any kind of injury, seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor soon after the accident. Car accident injuries could include spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries, which may have long-term consequences such as substantial medical bills.
Moreover, some serious injuries may not be immediately apparent. Internal injuries or soft tissue damage can take time to show symptoms.
Early medical evaluation ensures you get the necessary treatment and provides medical records that can support your personal injury insurance claim.
3. Call the Police
If you are physically able, and someone else has not already taken the initiative, always call the police, even for minor car accident cases. The officer will document the scene, gather statements, and create an official report.
Without an official police report, it can be challenging to establish a clear record of the incident, which may complicate insurance claims and determinations of fault. Additionally, not having a police report can weaken your case if legal action becomes necessary.
4. Exchange Information
Exchange names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information with the other driver. This ensures both parties have the necessary information for insurance claims and any follow-up communication.
If the other driver is hesitant, remain calm and persistent, emphasizing the importance of the exchange for both of your protections. If that doesn’t work, and they decide to leave anyway, be sure to write down their license plate number to give to your insurance company, the authorities, or your car accident lawyer.
5. Document the Scene
Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Photos can provide clear evidence of the extent of damage and conditions at the time of the car accident. Make sure to capture multiple angles and any relevant road signs or signals.
Additionally, write down details about the car accident, including the time, date, location, weather conditions, and how the accident happened. Remember to keep your notes factual and objective—avoid making assumptions about the cause of the accident. A car accident lawyer can help you draft your documentation correctly.
6. Avoid Admitting Fault
When speaking with the other driver or the police, avoid admitting fault. Stick to the facts. Remaining neutral is important because determining fault is a complex process that involves assessing various factors—which may not be immediately apparent.
By not admitting fault at the scene, you allow the insurance companies and authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, ensuring a fair outcome. This will also be beneficial for your automobile accident attorney.
If you haven’t received medical attention yet for even your minor injuries, now would be the perfect time to do so.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and start the claims process. Delaying this step could result in complications or a longer wait time in receiving your benefits.
Share the police report and any other relevant documentation with your insurance company. These documents provide essential details about the accident, support your claim, and help clearly establish the facts.
8. Keep Records
correspondence with your insurance company. This would also be helpful if you decide to hire a personal injury lawyer.
Organized records make it easier to manage your claim and provide the necessary evidence for your car accident attorney in PA to use if any disputes arise.
9. Keep a Recovery Journal
Recovery journals are essential for more serious car accident cases. Document your recovery process, including symptoms and how the potentially serious injuries may affect your daily life.
This can be a valuable record for car accident victims who need to demonstrate the impact of the accident on their health and well-being. It also helps track their progress and manage their medical treatment effectively.
10. Consult a Car Accident Lawyer & File a Car Accident Claim
Victims of serious car accidents may benefit from hiring an attorney. An experienced car accident attorney in PA can advocate for your best interests, handle complex legal matters, and work towards securing compensation. Car accident attorneys play a vital role in investigating the accident and negotiating with insurance companies.
They can also help you follow your insurance company’s process for filing car accident claims. Car accident lawyers provide legal assistance and representation, helping victims build personal injury claims and seek compensation for damages.
An added benefit of consulting with an automobile accident attorney is that they can familiarize you with your rights. They are essential in handling various aspects of a car accident case, such as dealing with the insurance company and evaluating injuries.
Knowing your rights empowers you to make informed decisions and ensures you are not taken advantage of during the claims process. A personal injury attorney can provide the necessary legal assistance and representation for your car accident case. Filing a personal injury claim within a specific time frame is crucial for a car accident settlement.
Take the Next Step to Protect Your Rights
Navigating the aftermath of car crashes can be daunting, but educating yourself on what to do after a car accident can help protect your rights.
Need a car accident attorney in Pennsylvania? Whether you need assistance with insurance claims or legal representation, John B Pike, Attorney at Law, is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can support you.
