What to do after an auto accident?
An auto accident can be very traumatic and injuries can be sudden or come on shortly after. The following is a quick guideline of steps to take after an automobile accident.
- If anyone was injured, call 911 and ask for medical help. The 911 operator will contact the police and send paramedics as well.
- If possible, move the vehicles involved out of the lanes of travel and out of oncoming traffic in order to avoid any subsequent accidents.
- Remain on the scene until the officers advise you that you may leave.
- Provide the requested information to the police. Ask for a copy of the police report and take down the officer’s name and badge number.
- ALWAYS collect the following information from the other people involved in the accident:
- Names, addresses and telephone numbers.
- Insurance company name and policy numbers
- The involved persons driver’s license numbers
- All pertinent information from any eye witnesses who were at the scene when the accident happened.
- Take photos or videos of all of the vehicles involved in the accident. Documenting the damage to the vehicles can help at a later time to show how the accident happened and where the impact occurred.
- Seek prompt medical attention; go to a hospital, urgent care or your primary care doctor to get evaluated as you may have suffered injuries that you do not even know you have yet.
- While insurance companies may contact you to ask for a recorded statement or wanting you to fill out paperwork, DO NOT REPLY OR SIGN ANYTHING, until AFTER speaking with a Steinger, Greene & Feiner attorney to know your options. A lawyer can help you navigate your way through dealing with the insurance companies.
Timing is essential, so make sure to take prompt action and know your rights by getting help immediately.