Getting injured in a car accident can be a scary and confusing time. Your adrenaline is likely surging, leaving you feeling disoriented and unsure of what to do next.
Knowing what steps to take immediately after the incident can ensure your safety and prepare you for the days ahead.
Check for injuries and call for help
The first step is to check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone sustained harm, call 911 right away. Getting medical attention as soon as possible can make a big difference in recovery.
Even if the injuries seem minor, verify that they are not more serious than they appear. Calling for help ensures everyone gets sufficient medical treatment and that the police create a report of the accident, which is helpful later on in a personal injury claim.
Document the scene
If it is safe to do so, taking photos of the accident scene can be very helpful. Use a phone or camera to take pictures of the vehicles, any visible injuries and the surroundings. These photos can provide useful information when dealing with insurance companies and help you remember details that you might forget later.
It is also a good idea to write down or make a voice memo about what happened while it is fresh in memory. Include details like the time of day, weather conditions and any factors that contributed to the accident.
Exchange information and notify your insurer
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver in the accident. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance company names and policy numbers.
However, do not discuss who is at fault or apologize. After leaving the accident scene, notify your insurance company about the incident. Reporting does not mean submitting a claim right away, but it starts the process and lets the insurance company know what happened.
Seek additional medical treatment and follow your doctor’s orders
Even if emergency services checked your injuries at the accident scene, follow up with a personal doctor as soon as possible. Things like whiplash or concussions might not display immediate symptoms. A doctor can perform a thorough examination and recommend any necessary treatment.
Keep records of all medical visits, treatments and any symptoms you experience after the accident. These records are important for medical and insurance purposes.
After getting injured in a car accident, it can feel like there are a million things to worry about. Following these steps can help you manage the situation more effectively and ensure that you do not overlook important aspects of post-accident care and documentation.