The Do’s and Don’ts after a Car Accident

Getting injured in a car accident can be traumatic. However, the things you do and don’t do immediately following the accident can often have an important impact on the outcome of your car accident claim.

Here are a few things you should do and not do after a car accident:

The Do’s

·         Seek medical assistance immediately. Don’t wait. If you delay getting medical help, it may be difficult to show that the injury corresponds to the accident.

·         Even if it the accident is a minor one, involve the police. The police will file an accident report which will have details of the accident as well as information of the other driver. This report can play an important role in your claims process.  

·         Collect as much information as possible from the other driver involved in the accident, such as name, address, telephone number, insurance information, as well as model and license plate number of the other vehicle.

·         Collect contact information of people who witnessed the accident. Witness’s information should be recorded before they leave the scene.

·         Take photographs of the accident scene in its authentic condition.

·         Promptly notify your own insurance company about the accident.

The Don’ts

·         Don’t move the vehicle. The law enforcement officials should be able to see the actual impact of the accident.

·         Don’t admit fault. Admitting that you caused the accident could be used as an admission against you.

·         Don’t make a recorded statement to your insurer. Contact a lawyer. Once your statement is recorded, you may be stuck with it. A lawyer can help you protect your legal interests.

·         Don’t agree to a settlement before discussing it with your lawyer. Your lawyer may be able to review whether the settlement offer is fair and just.