A car accident is a major life event that can have a great impact on your life, especially because no one ever expects it. Sadly, it results in serious injuries and fatalities most of the time. According to Annual Global Road Crash Statistics, almost 50 million people suffer from non-fatal injuries as a result of road crashes every year. We might think that anyone who experiences an accident is well-aware of all the steps they have to take and acts accordingly.
However, following a car crash, you may be suffering from emotional and physical distress, making you unable to think straight and take all the right measures. This article covers the most important things you need to do right after the accident, so you can check them off your list.
1. Pull Over
The first thing you need to do is to pull over after the crash. If you don’t turn off the ignition and pull over, not only will you be breaking the law but you will also be exposing yourself to more danger as you drive again while you’re injured or slightly unconscious. Ensure to turn on your hazard lights to signal the people passing by, especially the drivers on the road.
2. Remain Calm
Try to get to safety and remain calm, it is very common to be shaken after a car crash. Breathe in and out and take a few minutes to take in the situation. Ask for help if you are unable to get out of the car or walk.
3. Call The Police And Ambulance
Dial 911 or the police hotline as soon as possible. Call the ambulance as well to have them take care of your injuries as well as others who’ve been involved in the accident. Cooperate with the police officers and provide them with all the information you have. If you believe the other party involved in the accident was driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, notify the investigating officers.
4. Take Notes
Write down everything that is related to the accident scene while you still remember. You want to write down a few important notes that include:
- The license plate numbers of all cars involved.
- Complete names of both drivers
- Telephone numbers and addresses of the drivers and witnesses.
- Street name and exact place of the accident.
5. Seek Medical Attention
Going to the hospital following a car crash is certainly out of the question. Even if you think your injuries are minor, getting yourself checked is still important. Not all injuries are obvious, and many symptoms can take time to develop. Here are some of the most prevalent internal injuries:
- TBI or Traumatic Brain Injury
- Broken Ribs
- Ruptured Spleen
- Internal Bleeding
You need medical experts to carry out important screenings like X-Rays and CT scans to diagnose any internal injuries before they cause you life-threatening complications. You also need to obtain medical documents to be able to file compensation claims.
Professional attorneys state that if you’ve suffered a personal injury, medical documentation helps you receive proper compensation. These documents are extremely important because they can prove that the other party’s negligence has resulted in your injuries and suffering. Thus, it’s your right to demand medical coverage and compensation.
6. Contact A Personal Injury Attorney
A Personal Injury Attorney will help you file a lawsuit against the at-fault parties for the accident. They will thoroughly explain to you the legal process and what needs to be done to win the case. The attorney you hire will also fight for your rights, represent you, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. After a car crash, you may feel burdened with medical bills, lost income, and psychological trauma. A personal injury lawyer can help you receive proper compensation for all of your losses.
7. Avoid Contact With Insurance Companies
Most personal injury lawyers and experts advise people against talking to insurance companies after a car crash. This is because the insurance companies of the parties at fault may try to pressure you into accepting low settlements that you don’t deserve. They will frequently try to call you and take advantage of your vulnerable state so that their clients don’t get held liable for your losses.
The aftermath of a car crash is understandably stressful as it can be. However, it is critical to attend to your injuries and focus on your mental and physical health to be able to cope after the accident. Don’t go through this process on your own, seek support from your loved ones and from professionals. Keep these tips in mind after an accident and you’ll certainly be able to get your life back on track in no time.
