10 Tips On What To Do Immediately After A Car Accident
According to Santa Barbara car accident attorneys, it’s important to take action immediately to protect yourself and others when you are involved in an auto accident. What you do during and after the accident will be pivotal in your personal injury claim. Here are ten tips on what to do immediately after a car accident:
1. Check Your Injuries
The first thing you should do after a car accident is to check if you or others are injured. Call 911 right away if anyone is injured.
2. Move to a Safe Location
Until paramedics arrive at the scene, you should move your vehicle to a safe location and away from traffic and oncoming vehicles.
3. Call the Police
Regardless of whether the accident is minor, it’s always best to contact the police and report the accident. Police officers will make an official report of your accident which will be helpful in your personal injury case and insurance issues.
4. Exchange Information
You and the other driver or drivers involved in the accident should exchange contact and insurance information. If there are witnesses, write down their contact information as well since it will help you in your case later.
5. Seek Medical Attention
No matter how well you feel after the accident, the most important thing is to seek medical attention right away. You might not be aware of some injuries, and their symptoms might manifest days after the accident.
Seeking medical attention will help you treat your injuries and obtain medical records that you can use in your personal injury case.
6. Take Photos of the Accident Scene
As you wait for paramedics to arrive at the accident scene, you should begin documenting the accident. Take photos of your injuries, vehicle damage, road conditions, and everything that might help your claim.
7. Don’t Admit Fault
Everyone is subjected to shock during a car accident. However, no matter what occurs at the accident scene, never admit fault, even if you believe you are responsible for the accident.
8. Contact Your Insurance Company
After a car accident, you should contact your insurance company to let them know about the incident but refrain from giving out too many details. Simply report the accident and provide them with the necessary information.
9. Keep Records
While treating your injuries, it’s best to record everything that occurs, including writing down all of your expenses, from medical bills to property damage and repairs, and any out-of-pocket expenses that were necessary due to the accident.
10. Consult With a Personal Injury Attorney
Lastly, consider consulting with a personal injury attorney. Even though insurance companies or the at-fault party might make you an offer to settle the issue, that doesn’t mean the offer is fair. However, a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and options and what you are entitled to. They can negotiate with insurance firms on your behalf and represent you in court if necessary. With a personal injury lawyer by your side, you will receive proper compensation for your losses and troubles.