What to do after an automobile accident
Planning for an accident is challenging. By definition, accidents are unexpected incidents, yet advance consideration is still recommended. At home, your family should create - and practice - a fire evacuation plan, and assemble hurricane, earthquake and natural disaster kits packed with water, snacks, and a first aid kit. Program numbers and addresses into cell phones and make sure you’ve discussed where to meet up during or after an emergency. Planning for the unprecedented when you’re calm is vital to prepare for the unexpected.
As an accident attorney, I want to prepare everyone for car accidents. Of course, nobody wants a wreck, but they happen, knowing what to do beforehand will help you make clearer decisions in the moment. Remember these steps – print out and keep in your glove compartment – if you, your family, neighbors or friends should ever need them. The COVID-19 pandemic has shared an important universal reminder: forewarned is forearmed.
Remain calm
If you’re able to move on your own after an accident, then take some deep breaths and reach for this list to guide you through the aftermath.
Secure the scene
Turn on your flashers. Light and place flares around the scene (put flares in your trunk right now if you don’t have any).
Do not move injured people
unless they are immediate danger.
Do not move the vehicles
if at all possible. Preserve the scene. Do not agree to “not report” the accident with the others involved.
Call 911
Remain at the scene until the authorities arrive. (Leaving an accident, “hit and run,” is illegal and makes you look guilty as well.) Once the police come, complete a full report, even if there are no serious injuries.
Take photos and videos
Document all vehicles from all angles plus anything else involved in the accident, such as poles and other stationary objects. Use your cell phone to record conversations with the other driver as well. Keep a disposable camera in your glove box to take photos in case your phone camera is damaged in the crash or runs low on power.
Do not admit fault
Report the facts to the police on scene to the best of your knowledge. If you’re unsure about any details, say that you are unsure.
Exchange insurance information
Contact your insurance agent with the details as soon as you return home. Provide your carrier with the police report number and find out what your policy covers.
See a doctor
If seriously injured, ask for medical attention on the scene. If your injuries are minor, or if you think you’re not injured, still get checked out by a professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as spinal cord or head trauma, may not manifest right away, and can cause lifelong damage.
Create an accident file
Write notes about what happened as soon as possible, and add those to your photos, videos, police report, any medical diagnoses and insurance information.
Contact a lawyer
Reach out to an accident attorney as soon as possible so she or he can advise you of your rights, advocate for your case, help your coordinate your evidence and medical care. Remember that you DON’T need upfront money because attorneys take their payments from successful settlements.
Work with an Attorney Who Will Fight For You
Have you been injured in Texas? Adeyemi Law Firm is here to help you when you need it most. Don’t navigate the stress of fighting insurance companies on your own. Adesola Adeyemi will help you through every step of getting back to normal life after an accident. Call for a free consultation today.