About 6 million car accidents occur in the US each year. Despite how often crashes occur, most people don’t know what to do. The steps you take after a car accident could impact your ability to fight for compensation.
You might have to cover your medical bills and property damages out of pocket as a result.
Don’t let that happen! Instead, follow these seven steps after a crash. Then, file a car accident claim.
With these tips, you can fight for the compensation you’re rightfully due.
Discover what to do after your first car accident with these tips today.
1. Move to a Safe Area
First, try to take a deep breath. You’re found to feel disoriented or stressed immediately after a car accident. How you react after the crash could impact your future car accident claim.
Instead of reacting out of fear or anger, focus on following these steps.
First, make sure your car is safe to drive. If you see fluids dripping from under the car, step away.
If the vehicle is safe to operate, move to a safe location nearby. Make sure the other driver remains close by, too.
2. Assess Your Injuries
Take the time to take stock of your injuries. If your injuries are severe, call for medical attention right away.
If it can wait, visit a doctor after you speak with the police who arrive at the scene.
Make sure to get the doctor’s official police report. Keep track of any medications or treatments you receive, too.
3. Call the Police
Make sure to call the police while you’re at the scene of the car accident. Then, file an official police report.
Your lawyer will use the official police report when filing your car accident claim.
4. Minimize Small Talk
As you wait for the police to arrive, try to avoid small talk with the other driver. Instead, use this time to note their:
- Name
- Vehicle make and model
- Insurance information
- Driver’s license information
You’ll need this information to file your insurance claim.
5. Gather Evidence
While you’re still at the scene of your first car accident, take the time to gather evidence. For example, you can take photo and video footage. Look for any witnesses, too.
6. Call the Insurance Company
Make sure to call your insurance company after a car accident. They can help you throughout the process of filing your claim.
7. Hire a Lawyer
Call a local car accident attorney right away.
There are over 146,000 personal injury lawyers in the US. Choose a lawyer who specializes in auto accidents. Make sure they have years of experience, too.
They’ll help you file your car accident lawsuit. They can also help you determine whether to settle or go to trial. Their experience and expertise will strengthen your claim.
Make Your Case: 7 Steps to Follow After a Car Accident
Don’t neglect to follow these seven steps after a car accident. Following these steps will help you gather the evidence you need. Then, you can file a car accident lawsuit to fight for compensation.
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