- Stay Calm
It’s natural to feel shaken or even panicked after a crash, especially if you’re in shock. However, staying calm is crucial. Take a deep breath and focus on following the necessary steps to ensure your safety and protect your rights.
- Ensure Safety
Check to see if anyone involved is injured. If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to a secure location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and call 911 to report the accident. If you or anyone else is seriously injured, do not move—wait for emergency personnel to arrive.
- Exchange information
If no one requires emergency care, exchange the following details with all parties involved:
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance information
- License plate numbers
- Make, model, and color of all vehicles involved
- Phone numbers and contact information
Your health should always come first. Even if you feel fine, certain injuries (like whiplash or internal trauma) may not be immediately noticeable. Visit a medical professional as soon as possible to assess any injuries. This also helps document your condition, which is important if you decide to file a claim later.
- Seek Medical Attention
Your health should always come first. Even if you feel fine, certain injuries (like whiplash or internal trauma) may not be immediately noticeable. Don’t delay and visit a medical professional as soon as possible to assess any injuries. This also helps document your condition, which is important if you decide to file a claim later.
- Document the Scene
Take clear photos of:
- All vehicle damage
- The surrounding area
- Road conditions and weather
- Traffic signs or signals nearby
Also, jot down the time of the accident and any other details that may be relevant later.
- Stay Quiet
If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, do not provide a statement. Politely ask for their name and contact information, and let them know that your attorney will be in touch. Never sign anything or discuss the accident without legal advice. Insurance adjusters work to protect their companies, not you, and their goal is often to reduce or deny your compensation.
- Contact an Attorney
Before dealing with any insurance company, consult a personal injury attorney. Having experienced legal guidance early on can help you understand your rights, avoid common pitfalls, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.