Knowing the right steps to take immediately after an incident can ensure your safety. It can also help protect your legal and insurance rights. What should you do in the aftermath of a crash?
Ensure your safety
The first thing you should do after a crash is to check if you and others are safe. If you can, move the cars out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and use warning triangles or flares if you have them.
Call the police
You should call the police no matter how small the accident seems. In Connecticut, you have to report any accident that causes an injury, death or property damage over $1,000. The police will come and write up a report of the accident, which is important for your insurance and any legal issues.
Exchange information
While waiting for the police, exchange information with the other driver. Important information to collect includes:
- Name and contact details
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license and license plate number
- Type, color and model of the vehicle
- Location of the accident
Do not talk about who was at fault or the specifics of the crash with the other driver as it could affect legal and insurance matters.
Document the accident
Use your phone to take photos of the accident scene, all cars involved, any damage, and the road conditions. These photos can be helpful when you file an insurance claim. Also, get contact information from any witnesses.
Notify your insurance company
Tell your insurance company about the accident as soon as you can. Give them all the needed information and work with them closely. Knowing details like your deductible and coverage limits can also help when dealing with your claim.
See a healthcare provider
Sometimes, the symptoms of your injuries may not appear until days after the accident. It is wise to see a doctor for a thorough check-up so that they can identify these injuries and treat them as soon as possible.
Call an attorney
After a car accident, lawyer can help you understand your rights and make sure you’re treated fairly by your insurance or the other driver’s insurance. They can help negotiate settlements and represent you in court if necessary.
Keep a file
As you learn more about your crash-related expenses and gather more details, make sure to keep all your documents about the accident in one file. Include things like the police report, photos of the accident, records of any medical treatment you received and letters or emails from your insurance company. Keeping this information together will make it easier to refer to these documents later.
Taking the right steps after a car accident can help you navigate the stressful event of a car accident with confidence and clarity. These steps can also help you protect your rights and support your insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
