A car accident can be sudden and startling. Most people will likely only be in a handful of accidents in a lifetime, if at all However, many people don’t know what to do once they’re in an accident.
It’s important to act fast after a car accident. Missing a step could lead to legal issues and make it harder for victims to seek fair compensation for their injuries, medical bills and losses. Here’s what you should know:
Step 1: Call the police
It’s important to inform the police of the accident immediately. The police should show up with an ambulance to make an accident report. If the police are not informed and someone suffers severe or fatal injuries, then there can be serious legal consequences.
Step 2: Move your vehicle
Many car accidents happen in the middle of traffic. If possible, drivers should move their vehicles to the side of the road close to where the original accident happened. By doing this, it’s possible to reduce further collisions. This may not always be possible if an accident causes too much damage to a vehicle or if someone is seriously injured.
Step 3: Get a medical examination
When an ambulance shows up, it may be important to get a medical examination. The adrenaline from the accident could mask serious injuries. The medical report could be used later to seek compensation if a driver or passenger is suffering from hidden injuries.
Step 4: Gather evidence
While it’s not always necessary, it may help to take pictures or video of an accident. Having a dash camera can help. This evidence may be used to prove a driver’s negligence and seek a fair settlement.
You may be offered compensation after an auto accident. However, this may not cover your medical expenses and vehicle damages. To hold someone accountable for your injuries, you may benefit from understanding your legal rights and learning more about your compensation options.