After an accident, it’s normal to feel totally spaced out and confused, no matter how big or small the crash. Your body releases a bunch of adrenaline, which makes it hard to think straight.
But even though it’s scary and confusing, there are some important things you should do immediately after a road accident to stay safe, take care of yourself, and protect your rights.
This guide will walk you through what to do first after an accident, so you can focus on healing and not worry about missing a step.
What You Should Do After An Accident
Here are the steps you should take after being involved in an accident:
Ensure your Safety First
The first thing to do after an accident is to check yourself and everyone else for injuries. This is called the “golden hour” because getting help quickly can be the difference between life and death. If someone is seriously hurt, call 911 right away.
Even if you feel okay, adrenaline can hide the pain. So, it’s important to see a doctor to check for any hidden injuries. You must never move someone who seems badly hurt. Instead, wait for medical professionals to arrive.
Once everyone is safe, secure the scene. If you can, move your car to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. If it’s not safe to move your car, stay put and wait for help.
Now that the scene is safe, start gathering information. Get the names, phone numbers, and insurance details of everyone involved. Take pictures of the damage to vehicles, the area around the accident, and any skid marks.
This information will be important for insurance and any legal stuff that might come later.
Even for minor accidents, make sure you call the police. They’ll make an official report that has all the details of what happened, what witnesses saw (if there were any), and their initial thoughts on who might be to blame. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to the officer if you’re unsure about anything.
Preserve Your Legal Rights
After an accident, it’s best to gather as much documentation as possible while the details are fresh in your mind. Write down everything you remember about the accident, including the date, time, location, weather, and what happened.
If there were any witnesses, try to get their contact information. Preserve all receipts you get for medical bills, car repairs, and anything else related to the accident.
Reach Out to Your Insurance Company
After seeking medical care, you should contact your insurance company to report the accident. Don’t wait too long. Most insurance policies have a clause requiring you to report any accidents you’re involved in within a specific timeframe, often 24 or 48 hours.
By informing them on time, you will establish a clear record of the accident and protect your right to file a claim for repairs, injuries, or other damages.
Before you hit them up, take a quick look at your policy to understand your specific coverage and any reporting requirements. This way, you’ll fully understand what you’re entitled to, and avoid getting railroaded into accepting a lesser offer.
Wrapping Up
If you were injured, consider talking to a lawyer who specializes in personal injury cases. Accidents can get complicated legally, and a good lawyer can fight to make sure you get the compensation you deserve. They can also answer any questions you have about your rights.
Be careful of scams after an accident. Unfortunately, some people try to take advantage of victims. Don’t trust anyone who calls you out of the blue offering repairs, legal help, or medical care. Do your research and get recommendations from people you trust before hiring anyone.
