If you've been involved in an automobile accident, it's important to take the following steps:
-
Check for injuries: The first thing you should do is make sure that you and anyone else involved in the accident are not injured. If there are any injuries, call emergency services immediately.
-
Move to a safe location: If the accident is minor and there are no injuries, move the vehicles involved to the side of the road, out of the way of traffic. If the accident is more serious, leave the vehicles where they are, turn on hazard lights, and wait for emergency services to arrive.
-
Exchange information: You should exchange information with the other driver involved in the accident, including name, address, phone number, insurance company, policy number, driver's license number, and license plate number.
-
Document the accident: Take photos of the damage to both vehicles and the scene of the accident. This will help when filing an insurance claim.
-
Report the accident: Call the police and report the accident. The police will come to the scene, assess the situation, and create an accident report.
-
Contact your insurance company: Call your insurance company and report the accident. Most insurance policies require that you report any accident even if it is not your fault.
-
Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, it's important to see a doctor after an accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be immediately apparent.
- Seek the assistance of an attorney that handles auto accident cases before speaking to the at fault drivers insurance company so that you know your rights.