Being involved in a traffic accident can be a stressful and hectic situation. However, being prepared and knowledgeable about what to do in these unfortunate incidents can make things go much smoother and minimize the hassle of the post-accident process.
Here is a checklist of 10 things to do following a car accident:
- Be Prepared BEFORE an Accident
Make sure you always keep a copy of your insurance card, vehicle registration, and medical alerts in your vehicle at all times. Also, invest in an emergency kit in for your car that includes, at the very least, road flares, a flashlight with fully charged batteries, a first aid kit, and a pad of paper and pen.
- Make Safety a Priority
When you are involved in a minor accident, if possible, move your vehicle and its occupants to the side of the road and safely out of the path of traffic.
- Do Not Leave the Scene
If you are involved in an accident, regardless of how minor it seems, call the police and stay on the scene until they arrive.
- Fully Document the Incident
Provide a thorough account to the police that details the all the facts of the accident. Also, write your own narrative about the accident including weather conditions, traffic conditions and anything else you may have noticed while the incident is still fresh in your mind.
- Take Pictures
Document the accident scene and your automobile by taking clear photographs. If you have a smartphone with a camera and internet access, email yourself the pictures right away so you have a backup if they get accidentally deleted.
- Gather Information on the Scene
Make absolutely sure you have all contact information from any other person involved in the car accident, especially their insurance information. Also, ask any third party witnesses to the incident if you can contact them if need be.
- If Injured, Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Make sure your doctor fully documents your injuries at the time of your accident, and follow all treatment instructions carefully.
- Fully Document Any Injuries
Keep a daily diary of your injuries. Record in writing all activities that you have difficulty with or are unable to perform as a result of injuries sustained in the accident.
- Use Discretion
Refrain from speaking to anyone other than your lawyer or doctor about your accident.
- Contact Us
Speak immediately with Baird Law Group before speaking with any insurance company.
Should you need help with this or any other legal issues, please feel free to call us at (813) 849-2679 or email us at this link!