6 Key Steps to Take After a Road Accident

Even the most careful drivers can be victims of road accidents. The important thing is to react appropriately when an accident occurs. The precise steps to follow after a road accident varies, but the following steps may help you.

1. Get to Safety

If the accident is minor and nobody is injured, slowly move your vehicle to the roadside to avoid blocking traffic. When getting out of the car, check oncoming traffic and be extra careful. The hazard lights should remain on. Erect emergency triangles and flares behind and in front of the vehicle. However, you shouldn't move the vehicles if somebody is injured or the accident is major.

2. Secure Seniors, Pets, Kids, and People With Disabilities

Young children, seniors, pets, and other vulnerable individuals should not be in a vehicle after a road accident. Once you switch off the engine, take the passengers to a safe place. However, if the accident is minor and children are in their car seats, leave them there. This way, you will easily assess the injuries and control their movement.

3. Contact the Police

Call the nearest police officers, although the police may not come to the scene of the accident if the collision is minor. In fact, some police now encourage people to do online reporting of road accidents. If a police officer comes to the scene of the accident, record the officer's name, contact information, and badge number. Also, ensure you keep a copy of the officer's report.

Also, contact an ambulance or fire department if somebody sustained injuries during the accident. If you don't know where you are, ask nearby individuals to give you the exact location of the accident scene. Wait until the dispatcher knows where you are before hanging up.

4. Document the Crash

Diligently document every aspect of the accident. Start by taking pictures of the accident scene and capture details of every type of damage. Also, take pictures of the other driver's vehicle. Don't forget to have clear images of the other driver's license plates.

Also, document the exact time and date when the accident happened. You can also include other information, such as your driving speed and prevailing road conditions. Some people even draw diagrams of the accident scene to explain how the accident happened.

5. Exchange Information

Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. For example, exchange contact information, full name, insurance policy number, and insurance company name. If possible, note the model, type, and color of the other vehicle.

Avoid discussing specific facts about the accident with the other driver. If you do, you might reveal information that insurance adjusters will later use to throw out or reduce your claim.

6. Notify Your Insurance and Start the Claims Process

Even if you are not at fault, reach out to your car insurance company and report the accident. Provide specific details about the accident, and send any pictures of the damage. Some insurance companies even have an app that you can use to record and submit videos and pictures of the accident. Remember, you can choose whether to file an auto insurance claim with your insurance company or the other driver's insurance company.

The claims process might seem straightforward but can be complicated. For example, the insurance company might put the blame for the accident on your shoulders. Therefore, you need the help of a qualified lawyer to win your case and get compensation.

If you don't know where to start, reach out to Jarve Granato Starr LLC. We have helped families and individuals recover millions of dollars due to medical malpractice, workplace mishaps, automobile accidents, and negligence. Contact us for more information.