When you crash your car, there are certain things you must do immediately afterward to ensure everyone stays safe. These steps also ensure you follow the law.
Here is your step-by-step guide to the aftermath of a car accident.
Check yourself
If you are not seriously injured, proceed to the next step. If you are seriously injured, stay as still as possible and wait for help to arrive.
Check your passengers for injuries
Check on your passengers. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 and follow their instructions until help arrives.
Get to safety
Move everyone that can walk to the shoulder. You should also move any vehicles that are safe to drive to the shoulder. When cars are not safe to drive, leave them where they are.
Call 911
Whether you have a serious collision or fender bender, you must call the police. The officers will file a crash report and take pictures of the scene. A lot of times in minor accidents, you will need to go to the station to fill out a report and present your pictures. Either way, this report is critical for when you file your insurance claim.
Document the accident
To document the accident, you must do the following:
- Identify the officers
- Obtain the report
- Take pictures
- Write down names
- Talk to witnesses
While all of this will be in the crash report, you should also make sure you have your information.
Your car insurance is there to pay for damages due to a crash. If they try to avoid paying you when they need to, fight them to get the money you deserve.
