Many car accidents occur in the U.S. every year. Being in a car accident is a frightening experience, but it is important to remain calm and know what steps you should take.
According to Pittsburgh Car Accident Lawyers, it’s important to make sure that everyone is safe if you are able, and call authorities right away. We hope that you will never be in a car accident, but if it happens, here is what you should do:
Check for Injuries
After a car accident occurs, it’s important to remain calm and assess the situation. You should check your visible injuries, if you are able, and check on the other passengers in the car. Call 911 right away, or ask someone to do it if you can’t.
The medics will instruct you on what to do until they arrive if someone is seriously injured. If you are unable to move, the best thing to do is keep still until help can get to you.
Move the Vehicle Out of the Road
If no one is seriously injured, try to move your vehicle from the road. If the accident occurred at night, turn your vehicle’s hazard lights on so other drivers can see you. If you are unable to move your vehicle, move along with the other people involved to a safe spot away from the road.
You can assess the damage done to the vehicles if you aren’t injured and take photos of the accident scene. It will help you later. If the accident is severe, call law enforcement as they will create a report of the accident, and you can request a copy of it for settlement purposes.
Exchange Information
If you feel fine, you should exchange information with the other driver and possible witnesses. Try to exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver, but nothing more. You should also:
- Get the other driver’s phone number
- Write down details of the other driver’s vehicle
- Note the contact information of witnesses and the badge number, name, and phone number of any law enforcement officers at the scene
Accept Medical Treatment
Sooner or later, emergency services will arrive at the scene, and you should accept a medical check-up and treatment. This is imperative because if you refuse to do so, insurance companies might label your injuries minor, which will affect your personal injury claim and compensation.
When you receive medical treatment, you should record all the medical bills, check-ups, out-of-pocket expenses, and missed work days. It will later help you in your personal injury case. Do not skip this process even if you feel fine. Some injuries might manifest themselves later.
File a Personal Injury Claim
If you have a personal injury attorney, you should contact them right after calling an ambulance to the scene and ensuring everyone is alright. However, if you don’t, consider opting for a free consultation from a good law firm once you feel you can.
A personal injury lawyer will help you file a personal injury claim to receive the rightful compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical treatment and bills, out-of-pocket expenses, lost wages, emotional trauma, property damage, and more.
If you notify your insurance company of the accident, don’t talk to the adjuster or the other driver’s insurance agent unprepared. It can affect your personal injury claims. With a personal injury attorney by your side, you will increase your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve. They can also help you file a lawsuit if that becomes necessary.
