Car accidents can be truly terrifying. Even if no one is seriously injured, the entire event can be extremely stressful. Knowing how to handle the aftermath is a must to make sure you receive the best possible outcome for any car insurance claims or lawsuits you end up filing if the accident was caused by another person. Here are a few important steps to take after a car accident.
Make sure no one is injured
The first priority is to ensure you or your passengers aren’t seriously injured. If so, contact emergency personnel right away for treatment. Once you’ve checked the people in your vehicle, check out the other vehicles involved. Even if no one is injured, the police should still be contacted. Along with filing a police report, they can also direct traffic around the accident scene.
Move your vehicle
If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location, out of the way of traffic. If you’re unable to, pull over to the side of the road as much as possible. Try to set up warning triangles or flares to signal your presence to other drivers. Also, try to move out of the way of traffic until the police arrive. Standing on the side of the road can be dangerous, so stay inside your vehicle if there is no safe place to stand.
Exchange information
Once the police have arrived, speak with the other motorists involved to exchange information. Ask for the person’s name and insurance info, so you can provide that information to your insurance company. You should also request a copy of the police report from the officer at the scene. It will be useful for establishing who was at fault for the accident. Be careful about what you say. Even an innocent statement can be used as an admission of fault.