A car accident can be sudden and you may be startled and confused. It can help to refresh your memory when figuring out what to do after an accident.
Here’s what you should do:
1. Report the accident to the police
You must contact the police so that you can get a report on the accident. Your insurance company will likely want a copy of the report so that they can assess liability and damages.
Some drivers will want to avoid making any kind of report. They may even convince you that a police report isn’t necessary. You should still follow through with a police report. If you don’t, you could lose out on compensation or the other driver could claim it was a hit-and-run accident.
2. Collect photographic evidence
While you wait for the police to arrive, you should collect evidence (if you are able) that supports your position. You could use your phone to take pictures or video of the accident’s aftermath. Try to get photos of the vehicles involved, debris on the road and the current traffic conditions. Having a dash camera can help record the events that transpired that led up to the accident, so make sure you preserve the footage.
3. Seek medical attention
An ambulance should arrive at the scene of the accident. You should be asked if you need any medical assistance. You may not immediately feel like you’ve been injured because of the adrenaline. But, you should still consider getting medical attention and getting a report. You could develop a medical condition after the accident and a report could help with your case.
4. Understand your legal rights
No matter how minor a car accident is, you should learn more about your legal rights. Once you learn your options, you can seek the full amount of compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.