What to Do After Being in a Car Accident
Driving is probably the most dangerous thing most of us will ever do. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, every year more than 30,000 people in the U.S. die in motor vehicle crashes and more than 2 million are injured. Even the most responsible driver can find themselves involved in a dangerous car accident. It is important that every driver on the road know what to do after a crash.
First, take some deep breaths. Our bodies handle car accidents with a rapid rush of overwhelming emotions like shock, fear, guilt, or anger. It is important to try to calm yourself down so that you can handle the situation. This is the time to assess the accident and determine if it was a serious one.
If you cannot get out of your car or it is not safe to try, keep your seatbelt fastened, turn on your hazard lights, then call 911 if possible and wait for help to arrive. If the accident seems minor, there are no injuries, and your vehicle is drivable, move to a safe spot that is not blocking traffic, like a highway shoulder or a parking lot.
Check everyone involved in the accident for injuries. Be extremely cautious because not all injuries can be seen. If immediate medical assistance is needed, call 911 to request emergency medical help. Even if there are no apparent injuries, always follow up with your physician in the days immediately following a crash. Many car accident injuries are not visible right away and do not begin to display symptoms until days or weeks later.
Call the police to request that an officer come to the scene. Even in accidents with no apparent injuries or damage, it is still important to always file a police report. This documents all of the important details of the crash and may be useful later should any problems arise.
Even if you think an accident was your fault, it might not be. Do not admit fault or accept blame at the scene. Exchange information with the other driver. Note their name, address, phone number, insurance company, insurance policy number, and license plate number. If the other driver is not the owner of the vehicle, be sure to get all of the owner’s contact information as well.
Take notes and pictures of the accident. Detailed notes and pictures of the scene may help the court and insurance agencies decide who is responsible. If witnesses are present and willing, take down their contact information as well. They can help clear up matters if one of the other drivers is not honest about what really happened.
If you or someone you love was injured in a car accident that was not your fault, contact Urban & Taylor, S.C., Milwaukee, WI car accident lawyer. Our dedicated legal team is committed to helping those who have been injured recover their losses. Contact Urban & Taylor, S.C. today for a free, zero-obligation consultation of your case.
