Even highly responsible drivers can find themselves involved in accidents. And when these accidents are serious, you may experience extensive injuries and property damage.
Knowing which steps to take after a car crash is crucial for your safety and peace of mind. It can also help you follow up with the insurance company as you seek compensation for your damages. Here are a few important things to do.
Check yourself and others for injuries
The first thing you must do is make sure you and your passengers are not hurt. If so, contact emergency services right away for assistance. If not, try to get your vehicle out of the flow of traffic if you can. Pull over on the side of the road or find a safe place to park. If you have warning triangles or flares, set them up around the vehicle to alert other drivers.
Get help from the police
Making the police aware of the accident can benefit you in two ways. First, the police can control the flow of traffic around your vehicle to prevent further injuries and property damage. Next, the police will create a report detailing what occurred and how. This report will contain only the objective facts of the incident, which can help you prove that the other motorist was actually at fault.
Exchange information with other drivers
You and any other drivers involved must exchange insurance information with each other. When exchanging this information, refrain from going into too much detail. Even a general apology may count as an admission of guilt based on the circumstances. Remain polite and civil, but do not provide more information than is necessary.
Once you are able to do so, contact your insurer and provide the information you have. You can also take note of the circumstances, such as the time and location where the accident took place. And if it is possible to do so safely, take a few pictures of the vehicle damage.
