Accidents happen, often when you least expect. In fact, 6 million traffic crashes occur each year in the United States.
When you find yourself involved in one, it can feel overwhelming and confusing. Your next steps may decide whether you move forward or get stuck in a disaster.
Prepare yourself by reading on so that you know what to do after a car accident.
Table of Contents
Stay Put
Never flee the scene of an accident. A hit and run, even a small ding, can land you with a misdemeanor.
Turn off your engine to prevent a fire or explosion.
If your car blocks traffic or leaves you in danger, move it if possible. Remain in your vehicle until the police arrive unless this leaves you in harm’s way. Do not discuss the accident with any other parties.
Check for Injuries
Check yourself and your passengers for any auto accident injuries. Do not move anybody at risk of a spinal injury as this can cause permanent damage or death. Apply pressure to open wounds to slow down bleeding and wait for help to arrive.
Remain Calm
Is this your first car accident? Do not flip out, even if the other person caused the accident. Remain cool and collected.
Road rage can result in criminal charges. Plus, the police may not get your side of the story with you ranting or somebody could get hurt if it escalates.
Call 911
Do not assume that somebody else will call for help. Psychologists found that the bystander effect leaves people assuming somebody else will take action, and can result in nobody contacting the police.
If you can, call 911 yourself. Give as much detail as possible so that they send the proper emergency team to care for you and anybody else involved.
Take Pictures
Take pictures of everything. If you or anybody inside the car suffered injuries, create a tangible record of it in case this goes to court for any reason.
Get shots of the vehicle damage from all angles as well. Photograph the entire scene including the other vehicle, signs, intersections, and other important details.
If you cannot take pictures, phone a friend after you call the police to do come to do this asap. This may protect you later.
Hire an Attorney
Take control of a situation that was out of your hands by contacting an attorney like this professional Roseville car accident lawyer. This can help you in a number of ways.
If you get blamed for the accident, then they can help limit the damage. An attorney will help you navigate the system and prove innocence if possible.
If another person’s negligence caused the crash, then they can help you prove this and bring it to justice. Hiring a lawyer will maximize your car accident settlement so you get the compensation needed and deserved for the damage, injuries, and suffering.
Remember What to Do After a Car Accident
Nobody expects to get into a car accident. But, sometimes it happens. Though you may not be able to prevent it, you can always prepare yourself by remembering what to do after a car accident.
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