Being in a car accident can be a traumatic and stressful experience.
The U.S. Department of Transportation reports that in 2023, more than 40,000 people were killed in motor vehicle accidents, with millions more being injured, many permanently.
In the aftermath of a car crash, staying calm and taking the proper steps to protect your safety, health, and legal rights is essential. Knowing what to do immediately following a collision can significantly affect the outcome of claims or legal matters that may arise later.
That’s when our legal professionals at The Solomon Law Group, LLC, can help.
Prioritize Safety
The first concern after a car accident is safety. If the accident was minor and your vehicle can still operate, pull to the side of the road to prevent further incidents. Turn on your hazards to alert other drivers, and check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Call 911 immediately to request emergency assistance if anyone appears to be hurt. Even if injuries seem minor, it is best to have medical professionals evaluate the situation.
When it seems safe, leave your vehicle and take a look at your surroundings. Stay alert to traffic and avoid standing in areas that may be hazardous. If possible, wait in a secure location until the authorities arrive.
Contact Law Enforcement
The next critical step is notifying the police, even for minor accidents. Officers can provide an official report that documents the crash. This report will be essential evidence when you file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. When talking to the police, be sure to provide clear and accurate information, but try to avoid admitting any fault or speculating about what may have caused the accident.
The responding officers may ask for your driver’s license, registration, and insurance information.
Always cooperate fully and ask for a copy of the police report as soon as it’s available. This can help clarify the details of your accident and further protect your interests.
Gather Evidence and Information
While waiting for authorities, be sure to document the scene. Use your phone to take photos or video of the vehicles involved, visible damage, and relevant details such as traffic signals, signage, or skid marks.
If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information and a short statement about what they saw happen.
Exchange information with all other drivers, including:
- Full names
- Addresses (physical and email)
- Phone numbers
- Insurance policy numbers
- License plate numbers
Remain courteous, but avoid discussing fault or liability when talking with other drivers. The evidence you collect at the scene can prove invaluable later.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay after your accident, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Injuries like whiplash or internal organ damage don’t always show immediate symptoms. This is why a thorough healthcare evaluation is needed to identify any hidden injuries, especially those that may worsen over time, and provide a record of your physical condition immediately following the crash.
Be sure to keep copies of any medical reports, related bills, and treatment plans or physical therapy costs that are related to your injuries. This can serve as evidence if you choose to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Notify Your Insurance Company ASAP
Promptly reporting the accident to your insurance company is vital in protecting your claim. Provide them with the details of the incident, including the police report number and any evidence you collected. Be truthful in your account of what happened, but avoid admitting fault until all facts are reviewed.
Insurance adjusters may request additional information or arrange for an inspection of the damage to your vehicle. It’s important that you (or your attorney) respond to these requests quickly to make sure that your claim keeps moving forward. If the process becomes complicated, consider consulting a lawyer specializing in car accidents.
Understand Your Legal Rights
In some cases, resolving an accident may require legal assistance. If you’ve suffered injuries, significant property damage, or disputes over liability, consulting one of our attorneys at The Solomon Law Group, LLC, can help you navigate the legal process. Our experienced car accident lawyers can advise you on your rights, negotiate on your behalf with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
It is also important to be aware of time limits for filing claims. Many states impose statutes of limitations, so acting quickly can protect your ability to seek compensation. Your attorney can help make sure that all relevant deadlines are met and that your case is handled correctly.
At The Solomon Law Group, LLC, we understand how being in a car accident can disrupt your life, and how taking the right steps immediately afterward can help you regain control. By handling the situation carefully and methodically, you can protect your health, your rights, and your financial stability as you move forward.
We’re here to help you do that.
