Did you know that a car accident often causes PTSD, anxiety, and depression?
People often go into a state of shock or fear when they get into an accident and do not know how to proceed.
If you were recently in an accident, or just want to be prepared, you should know the steps following a car accident.
Continue reading to discover the best advice after car accidents so that you are safe and covered!
1. Check for Serious Injuries
At the scene of the car accident, you must first check yourself and your passengers for severe injuries.
If anyone is pinned or stuck in the vehicle, you should contact medical help before pulling anything away. Use your best judgment and try to keep the person awake and breathing until EMS can arrive. When injuries occur, remain calm and try not to panic since it can disrupt your ability to problem-solve.
As long as everyone in your vehicle is safe, you should all get away from the vehicle and the street. You can check on passengers from other vehicles involved in the crash and get help if necessary.
2. Contact the Police
No matter who is at fault for the motor vehicle accident, the police must be called to open a case.
The police, EMS, and fire trucks will likely arrive at the scene, especially if there was a heavy impact. At the scene of the accident, the EMS will quickly check you for signs of concussions and treat any injuries. After you’re cleared for health, the police will want a statement from you.
Try to give the officer as many details as you can remember. If you are at fault, you may get a ticket, go to jail, or get let off with a warning. Don’t share information that you are unsure about until you have a lawyer.
Never leave the scene of the accident until the police have told you that it’s okay.
3. Document the Details
When you talk to the police about the vehicle accident, they will draft up a summary of what happened.
This summary will get sent to your insurance company, and influence your rates and coverage. If you want to protect yourself, take as many photographs of the scene, vehicles, and injuries from the accident. All of this documentation can be used as evidence in court and prove your innocence in the accident.
If you receive any documentation from doctors about billing or diagnoses, you should also keep a copy nearby.
4. Get Medical Care
Serious injuries will often result in a trip to the ER in an ambulance.
If you don’t have to be transferred to the hospital, it’s still essential that you seek medical care. Getting checked by the doctor can ensure that you aren’t suffering from a concussion, internal bleeding, or other injuries. Be honest with the doctors and tell them all of the symptoms you’re experiencing.
It’s common for people to feel the most pain from the accident within 2 to 3 days. Many people that don’t see a doctor on the first day often come into the office because the aches get worse as the body tries to recover.
5. Find a Lawyer
Having a lawyer by your side can prevent you from getting sued, going to jail, or paying expensive medical bills.
If you want a reliable lawyer, Niyazov Law Group has an excellent selection. You want to work with the most knowledgeable and cohesive team since multiple people may represent your case.
A lawyer can represent your case to ensure that you get the compensation you are deserved. They can also help if the blame falls on you and you can’t find a way to prove your case.
6. Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve obtained the police report number and information, you can contact your insurance company.
The insurance company will open a claim in your name and take all the documentation about the accident. The more info you provide that can prove you aren’t guilty, the less it’ll impact you.
It’s common to see an increase in your insurance rates after an accident because you are considered to be more of a liability. Contact your insurance company as quickly as possible so they can take your claim seriously and not deny your coverage.
Depending on the incident details, you may get full coverage for your vehicle repairs or qualify for a replacement.
7. Get Back on the Road
A bad accident can scare anyone from ever getting behind the wheel again.
Getting back on the road when you are healthy is the best way to overcome your fears. It helps to start driving again in lesser populated areas to avoid traffic and gain back confidence. Don’t be afraid to ask a friend or family member to come with you for support.
Try to remain calm on the road and be observant of your surroundings. Although you can’t control other drivers and people, you can do your best to maintain control over your vehicle.
If your car was damaged from the crash and you got repairs, you’ll also want to be sure that the car is functioning properly. Pay attention to strange sounds, smells, and smoking if you think that something is wrong.
Don’t Let a Car Accident Crush You
When you get into a car accident, it’s easy to go into shock and forget the basics.
The guide will help you decide which steps to take after a car crash to ensure that you are covered medically, financially, and legally. If you need to cover health bills or buy a new car, you should have a lawyer by your side to fight the case.
Don’t forget to take plenty of photographs and recall details to help the police and the insurance company.
If you want to learn more about getting legal help and preparing for the unexpected, read our blog for the latest content!
