No one wants to be involved in an accident. However, no one can predict when or where such cases may occur. In the event of an accident, it’s vital to remain calm so you can ensure your own safety as well as that of others around the scene.
What’s more, this will help you process your insurance claims as fast as possible. The steps outlined in this article will help you evaluate the damages and injuries in the accident.
1. Remain Calm
This must always be the first step. As soon as you recover from the shock, it’s important to stay calm. It may be the difference between life and death.
Car accidents cause confusion, especially if the impact was huge or the accident claimed lives. Nevertheless, remaining calm is vital because you can help others or even prevent further injuries.
In addition, remaining calm will help you remember details of the accident if asked by the police, your insurance representative and your personal injury lawyer.
2. Call Emergency Services
Your life and those of others in the accident come first. Therefore, check around to see whether anyone needs urgent medical attention. You also want to assess the location of the accident. Is it safe?
Are the cars causing any traffic pile up? If yes and no respectively, leave the cars for the police to analyze.
3. Document the Accident Scene
After everyone is safe, it’s time to start documenting the accident scene. Start by taking pictures of the scene including capturing the cars’ positions.
Do this before the police arrive. Afterward, note down other details of the accident including how it took place before you can forget.
If there’re witnesses, try to convince them to give their account of the accident on paper. Don’t forget to get numbers and their names. During this process, it’s important to stay neutral even if you disagree with their account. Remember, the witness account is to ensure the insurance companies have a clear picture.
4. Furnish the Police with all Details
The police should already be at the scene by this time. During the entire interrogation, make sure you furnish them with all the details of the accident.
Also, remember to ask for an accident report. While this may be uncomfortable for you, documenting the accident details, such critical information will help you get your insurance claims faster should a suit follow.
Additional Details to Consider:
- Keep a record of the items damaged in your car. This may include glasses or electronics among other items.
- Document your health condition at that point regardless of how minor you may think it is. Also, provide the same details to all other officials.
- During this entire process, make sure you tread with caution, especially when it comes to signing documents. In fact, it’s in your best interest to contact your car accident lawyer to help you scrutinize the documents.
There you have it. Simple steps you can take to determine the damages and injuries incurred in a car accident. However, you must always remember to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
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