What To Do if You're in an Auto Accident
People panic when they’re in an automobile accident. All the rules you’ve ever heard for what to do in an accident fly right out the window when an accident occurs. To make sure you’re prepared if you’re ever in an accident, make a list of procedures (or print this one out!) and keep it in your glove compartment with your registration so you’re sure to follow the right steps.
Call the police if you’re in an accident.
Call the police – no ifs, ands or buts. Let the police determine whether the accident warrants a written report, and let the police collect insurance information from the other driver. If you’re unable to retain the other driver at the scene of the accident, make sure you get a thorough description of the vehicle, including the license plate number, color make and model of the car. Also get witnesses’ information if they need to leave before the police arrive.
Seek medical treatment sooner rather than later.
Sometimes it’s readily apparent when you’re in an accident that you need medical assistance. Other times, it doesn’t seem obvious until the next day, or even a week later, that something isn’t right because of the accident. Seek medical treatment sooner rather than later. If nothing else, go to the ER and follow up with your doctor a week or two later. If you don’t seek medical treatment right away but develop complications later, it’s more difficult to tie your injuries to the accident if you didn’t seek medical assistance quickly.
Get photos of the scene, if possible.
The best thing you can do for yourself if you’re in an accident is to get photos of the accident scene, if possible. Get photos of your car, the other car and the surrounding area. Take photos from multiple perspectives to capture all the relevant details from the accident. If you can’t get photos at the time of the accident, return as quickly as possible to the scene to get photos of the area.
Consult a personal injury attorney.
Insurance companies can be quite a hassle if you’re involved in an auto accident. If you don’t want the hassle of dealing with the insurance companies, contact a Board certified personal injury lawyer if you’re involved in an accident. Let the lawyer be your advocate and deal with the insurance companies directly.
Information provided by Mark A. Anderson, Fort Worth, Texas
Contact: 817-294-1900 or Contact Mark A. Anderson Online
