When you’re in a car accident, it’s an extremely stressful and scary situation. Emotions run high, injuries may be severe, and your car might be totaled.
No matter how serious the car accident is, here are a few things you should do at the scene of the accident and immediately following:
1. Stay at the crash scene. No matter what, don’t leave the scene of the accident. If you do, you could face serious criminal charges.
2. Check on all drivers and passengers. Make sure that everyone is okay and not in need of immediate medical assistance.
3. Call 911. Call the police if they haven’t already been contacted and get a written police report, no matter who you believe is at fault.
4. Exchange information. Make sure that you get all the information you need from everyone involved. Insurance information, names, phone numbers, and addresses are vital.
5. Speak to witnesses. Get information from all witnesses and make sure they are fine with you or your attorney contacting them if needed.
6. Talk to your insurance company. Let your car insurance company know as soon as possible so they can start working on your claim.
7. Take pictures. Take pictures from every angle and don’t move anything before taking the photos.
8. Keep track of medical information. Make certain that you keep good records of all of your medical visits, including gas expenses to and from the doctor’s office, and keep a journal of how you’re feeling after the accident.
9. Don’t discuss the accident on social media. Avoid posting about your accident or injury on social media. By doing so, you could inadvertently tamper with case by admitting fault or saying something that hurts your case. It’s best to keep quiet and not advertise the accident until you speak with a car accident lawyer.
Continue reading: Can Social Media Impact Your Personal Injury Claim?