A Step-by-Step Guide on What to Do After an Accident

Getting into a car crash is a traumatic event that can leave those involved shocked and unsure of what to do next. But knowing what needs to be done after an accident can make a huge difference down the line. Particularly in relation to whether you receive compensation or not.

Each year, 4.4 million people in the US are injured in car crashes. Although statistically, car crashes are rare, it’s still possible you could be involved in one at any time. Because of this, it’s important to know what steps you need to take after you’re involved in a car accident.

Read on to learn what needs to be done in the aftermath of a car accident.

1. Check Everyone Is Ok

Before you do anything else, you need to make sure that everyone you’re traveling with is ok. If anybody is injured, you should seek medical attention immediately. It’s possible that you or your passengers are suffering invisible injuries, such as internal bleeding or a concussion.

2. Take Precautions

After you’ve ensured everyone is ok, you should secure the scene and get everyone to safety. Put the blinkers on your car to alert other motorists that you’re unable to move. Move to the side of the road where it’s safe.

3. Call the Authorities

Once you and everyone you’re with is safe, you need to call 911. Even if there are no injuries, you should still file an official report. You may need this to make a claim to your insurance company.

4. Document the Scene

It’s important to document the scene of the crash, so that you, the police, and your insurance company have an accurate idea of what happened. Take photographs from different angles. You can also make a written account of what happened while the incident is still fresh in your mind.

5. Exchange Information

If there was another vehicle involved in the crash, your next step will be to exchange information with the other party. You should take their name, address, phone number, and email.

If they have insurance, you’ll need to get this information too. If you’ve gotten in a wreck and you don’t have insurance, you’ll need to follow some different protocols.

6. Notify Your Insurer

If you do have insurance, the final step after your crash will be to notify your insurer of what has happened. When you’re doing this, all of the steps leading up to this—exchanging information, documenting the crash, filing the police report—will help your case with your insurer. You’re much more likely to receive compensation if you’ve followed these steps.

What to Do After an Accident

Getting in a car crash is always going to be a scary and disorienting experience. If you’ve already informed yourself on what to do after an accident, however, the process will be a lot smoother. If you’re looking for any more safety tips and tricks, you can check out the rest of our site now.