Getting into a car accident can be a traumatic event for everyone involved. If you’re lucky, the damage will be minor, and everyone will walk away without injuries. However, even a minor car accident can be stressful and overwhelming. After the accident, you will need to collect your info on the scene and deal with various professionals. To make sure you’re handling everything correctly, here are 10 things you need to do after a car accident:
1. Check for injuries
The first thing you should do after a car accident is check for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 right away. Even if the injuries seem minor, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and get professional medical help.
2. Move to a safe location
If your car is still operable, move it to a safe location off the road. Turn on your hazard lights and wait for help if it’s not.
3. Call the police
Even if the accident is minor and there are no injuries, you should always call the police. They will document the accident and fill out a police report which can be helpful later on.
4. Exchange information with the other driver
Get the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance company, and policy number. It’s also a good idea to get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
5. Take pictures
Use your phone to take pictures of the damage to both vehicles and any visible injuries. These pictures can be helpful later on when filing an insurance claim.
6. Contact your insurance company
You’ll want to contact your insurance company and let them know about the accident as soon as possible. They will likely have you start a claims process which will be used to determine who is at fault and how much damage was done.
7. See a doctor
Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s always a good idea to see a doctor after a car accident. Sometimes injuries can take days or even weeks to manifest, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
8. Keep track of expenses
If you end up incurring any expenses due to the accident, be sure to keep track of them. This includes things like medical bills, car repairs, and lost wages. You may be able to recoup these expenses through your insurance claim.
9. Hire an attorney
If the accident was serious or you are having trouble getting help from the insurance company, you may need to hire an attorney. They can help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve.
Luckily, car accident attorneys specialize in these types of accidents. So don’t be hesitant to call a few and set up consultations to find the best one for you.
10. Take your time
Dealing with a car accident can be stressful and overwhelming. So take your time, be patient, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Some specialists and professionals can help you with what you need. With time and effort, you’ll be back on the road.
In conclusion, a car accident can have a significant effect on your life. If you are lucky, it will be a minor incident. Whatever type of accident you have, you must do the proper follow-up. By following these steps, you can help ensure that everything is taken care of correctly and that you get the compensation you deserve.
If you have auto body related questions or your car is in need of any auto body repairs, contact Network Auto Body.