What You Should Do And Not Do If You Are In A Car Accident

Car Accidents

One of the most common questions we get is what should you do if you are in a car accident.  To help answer that question here is a list of 10 of the most important things TO DO and NOT TO DO if you are in a car accident:

1.       Call 911 immediately if you are able;

2.       Access your physical condition and the physical condition of the operator of the other vehicle(s);

3.       Take photographs of your vehicle, the other vehicle(s) involved, the roadway, any traffic control devices and the surrounding area using your cell phone camera or a disposable camera you keep in the glove box;

4.       Always remain on the scene to give the investigating police offer a full description of what occurred;

5.       Make a notation of any statements made by the operator of the other vehicle(s), including but not limited to any statements accepting responsibility for what occurred or explaining what occurred such as running   late, not paying attention, texting, etc. (If   possible listen to what the other driver(s) say to the investigating officer);

6.       Make sure you get witness information:  names, addresses and phone numbers (cell, home and work if possible).  Also, ask them to hand write a statement if they are willing (never expect the investigating officer to get this information as they are often over worked and will see the accident as a  minor matter);

7.       Get medical attention even if you believe your injuries are only minor as it may take hours or days before the full extent of your injuries are known.  A slight delay in treatment can cause the insurance company to improperly deny a claim;

8.       Report the accident to your insurance company;

9.       Do not give a statement to the other operator’s insurance company; and

10.     Do not accept responsibility for the accident or admit fault at the crash scene  as the cause of the accident may not always be immediately clear and such statements may later be used against you.

**ALWAYS SEEK QUALIFIED LEGAL ASSISTANCE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE**