If you’ve just been in a car accident, your mind is likely going a mile a minute. Figuring out your next steps will be crucial but can seem overwhelming at the time.
Following an accident, you could experience anything from severe injuries to mild discomfort. It is key to any legal claims process that a car accident be appropriately documented, witnesses be gathered, and more. As important as that is, however, there are numerous steps to take immediately following a car accident.
Let’s look at a simplified breakdown of 10 things that should be done if you’re involved in an automobile accident.
Stay Calm! Any Injuries?
First and foremost, any expert will tell you, it’s important to stay calm. Frequently, however, this is easier said than done. You might feel stunned, be in shock, and feel like everything’s moving in slow motion. Your first inclination might be to assess the damage by immediately jumping out of the car. Stop!
Take a minute. Breathe, pause, and assess your body for any possible injuries.
Call for Help from a Safe Area
Look around. Are you safe? Turn on your hazard lights and pull to a safe space, if possible. Your safety comes first so remember your health and try not to move around too much if you don’t have to.
Call 911. Give as much information to the 911 operator as you can, and anything they ask for.
Personal Information Should Be Exchanged
If possible, locate the other driver(s) and exchange information. Be sure to note the following:
- Color, model, and make of other vehicle(s)
- Tag number
- Driver’s phone number
- Driver’s license number (of other drivers)
- Insurance company
- Name of other driver(s)
Document What You Can
With most cell phones having cameras, it’s quick and easy to get pictures of damage, weather conditions, roadside signs, etc. Get contact information from any witnesses. Get the responding police officer’s badge number, name, etc.
Make sure that any documentation you get is saved.
Contact Your Insurance Company
All of the information collected above should be provided to your insurance company (and possibly a legal representative).
Make an Appointment with a Medical Professional
Even if you feel fine, you should be checked out by a medical professional. This could be an ER visit, your personal physician, an appointment with a chiropractor, etc.
Discuss The Accident with a Legal Representative
Insurance companies seldom act with your best interests at heart. Contact a legal representative so you can be sure you’re represented fairly throughout any legal proceedings that might be encountered down the line.
Discuss Any Questions You Have with Your Insurance Representative
Any medical bills, repair bills, etc. should be discussed with your insurance rep. Also make sure to share any bills with your legal representative, in case they can secure reimbursement for them.
Car Repairs
Naturally, if your car is beyond repair it’s probably time to start shopping. If your car can be repaired, however, set up an appointment with the shop. You may be able to be reimbursed for a car rental, if necessary, through your insurance company, or your legal representative may be able to get you reimbursed.
What Shouldn’t You Do?
Now that you know what you should do immediately following a car accident, here are a few things that should not be done:
- Don’t misplace any documentation (this could apply to bills, medical appointments, pictures, etc.)
- Either at the scene or after the accident, never decline medical care and attention
- Don’t ever say the following while at the scene: “I’m okay.”, “I’m not injured.”, “It was my fault.”, or “I’m sorry.”
- Do not, under any circumstances, talk to the other person’s insurance company agreeing that the conversation can be recorded
- Don’t ever run away from the scene, that’s against the law (If, of course, you need to be transported to the hospital, that’s another story altogether)
Where to Get Chiropractic Care If You’re in a Car Accident
At RejuvenX Spine and Joint, we constantly strive to make a positive difference in the lives of our clients. We will supply you with useful joint and spine care knowledge and do all we can to relieve your pain.
For more information or to make an appointment, fill out our convenient online form.
