5 Immediate Steps To Take After A Car Accident

Car accidents are becoming more common as time progresses. You may know several people who have gotten into a car accident. In fact, approximately six million car accidents occur in the US every year, and more than three million people are injured.

There is a reason that there is a car accident lawyer for every wreck on the road, and it’s because of the fact that car accidents are so common across the US. With the right support, you can ensure that you are looked after and not worried about what comes next after an accident.

We hear about precautions to prevent car accidents, but no one tells you what to do after a car accident. For example, if you end up injured and miss months of work, you would struggle to pay medical bills along with day-to-day expenses. So, make sure that confusion and chaos do not leave you unsure of what to do after a car accident in Colorado?

Steps to Take After You Get Into a Car Accident

It is crucial to remember that the way you react after a car accident has the potential to make or break your legal case. That is why you need to make sure that you follow the five steps given below immediately after a car accident:

Personal Safety Above All Else 

It is natural to feel disoriented and shaky following a car crash. An overwhelming feeling will take over you but try to take a deep breath and focus. Then, turn your hazard lights on, and try to move out of the traffic. Additionally, if you detect signs of leaking gas, exit the vehicle immediately. Finally, do not drive your car unless you are entirely sure it is safe. 

Remember to remain at the scene of the car crash. If you leave, it could harm your chances of filing a claim and put you at risk. 

Call 911

Calling 911 will result in the police and an ambulance rushing to your location. Once both have arrived, you will be examined for injuries, and the police will take an accident report. The report will contain details regarding the occurrence, parties involved, and more. 

Moreover, avoid all kinds of small talk while you wait for the police to arrive. Do not offer your opinion regarding the cause of the crash. The less you say about the crash, the better.

Gather Essential Details

As the police assess the car wreck, gather vital information required to make a claim. For instance, basic information of the other driver’s:

• Name
• Phone number
• Address
• Driver’s license number
• License plate number
• Insurance information

Next, document details about the car accident; what happened before and afterwards. For instance:

• Exact date and time of the accident
• Where the accident happened
• What road you were on
• Which direction was the other car traveling
• The driving conditions

The professionals at rmfwlaw.com opine that if witnesses are present at the accident spot, exchange contact information with them. You can contact them for an overview of the incident when required. Lastly, take as many photos as you can. Your insurance company will demand photo evidence when you file a claim. You need photos of the following:

• Where were the cars located
• The street the accident occurred
• Signs of the crossroads nearby
• Property damage
• Injuries

Contacting Insurance Companies

After the car accident, contact your insurance company. Even if you are not at fault, you need to inform them of the wreck just in case the other driver does not have insurance. 

Furthermore, if the other driver’s insurance company does not reach out, you should call them yourself. 

Contact an Experienced Lawyer

Call an experienced attorney who specializes in car accidents and discuss the situation with them. Provide them with the necessary information to evaluate your case and get you the compensation you deserve. It’s best to contact a local attorney who can help you navigate the local laws and court systems that may be involved in your case. If you reside in Aurora, contacting an Aurora Car Accident Attorney is a good place to start. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, build a strong case and represent you in court if necessary.