In the United States, over 284 million motorists are operating on the roads with over 5 million automobile accidents happening every year. While this seems like a small percentage, the impact of any car accident is immense and often causes a great deal of stress for those involved.
If you are involved in an automobile accident, there are certain steps you should take to ensure your safety and protect your rights. The following checklist will help guide you through what to do after a car accident:
1. Check for Car Crash Injuries
The first step in assessing a car accident is always checking to see if anyone is hurt. Car crash injuries can be sudden, painful, and oftentimes fatal. Nothing is more important than the safety of you and your loved ones, and once you have made sure everyone is safe, you can start to assess the damage of the wreck.
2. Get to Safety
Once you have assessed all of the passengers for car crash injuries and determined that no one needs immediate medical attention, it is important to move both vehicles away from traffic to ensure your safety and prevent further damage. If possible, try to move the cars onto the shoulder of the road or to nearby parking lots before exiting the vehicles.
3. Call 911
After you have assessed the accident and determined if any individuals are injured or if there is property damage, it is important to call 911 for help. Calling emergency services will ensure medical attention for anyone who needs it and provide an official record of the incident.
4. Exchange Important Information
To make sure all parties involved know one another’s information, exchange insurance details, license plate numbers, and driver’s license details with the other motorists involved in the accident.
Make a note of any information they give you like phone numbers, addresses, etc., as well as any details from witnesses who may have seen the accident happen.
5. Document the Scene of the Accident
To protect your rights and avoid future complications, it is important to take photos of any damages on both vehicles as well as any other objects that may have been damaged during the incident.
Additionally, if any witnesses saw what happened during the accident, be sure to get their contact information in case you need further details down the line.
6. Avoid Roadside Discussion About Who is Responsible
In some cases, it may seem reasonable to agree immediately with the other motorist that involves monetary compensation for damages caused by the car accident. This can often lead to unpleasant consequences later on since it is hard to accurately assess all of the damages right away.
It is important to remain calm and courteous whilst avoiding any discussion of who is responsible for the accident until you have contacted your insurance company.
Bethany Insurance is Here to Take Care of You
Being in a car accident can be stressful, especially if there are car crash injuries involved, but with Bethany Insurance we will take some of the stress off of your shoulders. Contact Bethany Insurance today to talk to one of our experienced team members and get started on protecting yourself from the potential risks that come with owning a vehicle.
