Being involved in a car accident can be a very stressful and emotional event. It’s important, however, that you remain calm and follow these steps to make the process after a car accident as painless as possible.
Make Sure Everyone is Safe.
Check for injuries both on yourself and those around you. If someone is injured, call 911 immediately and request medical assistance.
Call the Police
Regardless of whether someone is injured or not, it is important to call the police any time there is an accident. Insurance companies will often require a police accident report. If anyone involved appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, make sure to mention that to the police when you call. Some drivers may offer to settle without talking to the police or contacting insurance companies. Don’t do that. Protect yourself by calling the police.
Exchange Information
Be sure to get the full names, addresses, and phone numbers of everyone involved. This includes drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and any witnesses. Take pictures of the other driver’s license and insurance card. Make sure you also write down the name of the police officer who arrives at the scene and the police report number.
Take Pictures
Use your phone to take as many pictures as you can of the accident site, the vehicles, and the people involved. Pictures that are taken as soon as possible will be the most valuable. Take pictures of any damage to the vehicles and the license plates. Pictures of other evidence such as street signs, lights, or skid marks can also be very helpful.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your own insurance company as quickly as possible. Most insurance companies have policy requirements as to how soon after an accident you must contact them. If you fail to notify them in the required time period, they may reject your claim and deny coverage. Your insurance company can help you get back on the road with a repaired or replaced vehicle if necessary.
Get Medical Attention
If you are seriously injured, you’ll most likely be taken directly to the hospital. But if you don’t appear to be seriously injured, do not assume that you haven’t been injured at all. Do not neglect strange symptoms, such as pain that appears hours later. Serious injuries from car accidents don’t always show up right away. Notify your healthcare professional and get yourself checked out.
Get Legal Help
If you’ve been seriously injured in a car accident, you should have an experienced attorney evaluate your case. At Bonina & Bonina, P.C., we have over 50 years of experience helping injured New Yorkers. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-MED-LAW1 to schedule your free consultation. Home and hospital visits available. Se habla espaňol.