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What To Do After A Car Accident?

If you’ve been in a car accident, it can be a very stressful time. Knowing what to do after the accident is essential to make sure you

Ensure Safety and Assess Injuries

First of all, make sure everyone is safe.

  • Check for Injuries: Ensure everyone’s safety first. If anyone is injured, seek immediate medical help. Call emergency services.
  • Move to Safety: If possible, move vehicles out of traffic to a safe location. Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
  • Do Not Leave the Scene: Stay at the accident site until authorities arrive.

Call Emergency Services

After you’ve confirmed everyone is out of danger, it’s time to call the authorities.

  • Contact 911 or Local Authorities: Report the accident to the police, even if it’s minor. They will create an official report that is crucial for insurance claims and legal matters.
  • Wait for the Police Report: The responding officers will gather information, assess the scene, and file a police report, which you may need for insurance and legal purposes.

Exchange Information

Now, gather information from all parties involvedThis includes:

  • Names, contact information, and driver’s license numbers of all drivers.
  • Insurance company names and policy numbers.
  • Vehicle license plate numbers and descriptions (make, model, color).

Don’t forget to document the scene as well. This involves:

  • taking photos of the vehicles, damage, the accident scene, skid marks, road signs, and any other relevant details
  • collecting contact details of any witnesses

Seek Medical Attention

Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to be checked by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately noticeable.

Ongoing medical treatment may be required depending on the severity of injuries, and documenting all medical visits is important for insurance claims.

Reporting the Accident

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Most companies require you to report it within a specified time frame (often within 24-48 hours).

Gathering Evidence

To make sure you can file a claim, you need to collect all relevant documentation: This includes:

  • Police report.
  • Medical reports and bills.
  • Witness statements.
  • Photos or videos of the accident scene and damages.

Additionally, keep a record of any expenses you incur due to the accident. Include medical bills, car repair estimates, lost wages, and any other expenses related to the accident.

Contact Legal Representation (If Necessary)

If there are disputes regarding liability or if significant damages and injuries are involved, consulting a lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure fair compensation.

File Claims and Handle Repairs

Once you’ve reported the accident, work with your insurance company to submit your claim. Be prepared to provide all necessary documents, including medical reports and the police report.

Obtain estimates from repair shops. Some insurance companies may provide a list of approved repair centers.

Follow Up with the Insurance Company

Stay in contact with your insurance company and ensure all paperwork is submitted. Depending on the complexity of the case, claim processing can take several days to weeks. Your legal team can keep on top of this for you, saving you the hassle.

Your Next Steps Matter

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. The experienced legal team at Meinhart & Manning is here to help. Contact us today for your free consultation by filling out our simple online form or giving us a call at (877) 776-1219. Let us guide you through your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve!