What to Do After a Car Accident

Thousands of people are involved in car accidents every year and, for most, this is an experience that they neither expected nor planned for. What you do after a car accident can be extremely important in preventing further injuries, in reducing costs and in streamlining the process of fair settlements and expedient repairs.
The first step in effectively dealing with a vehicle accident in which you're involved is to have a comprehensive plan beforehand. This takes into account the reality of the potential of falling victim to an auto accident and having a number of items on hand in your vehicle, including:

• A charged cellphone with built-in camera or phone and separate disposable camera
• Pen and paper for taking notes
• Medical card indicating allergies and info on any important medical conditions
• Contact numbers for your insurance agent, insurance company and lawyer
• Flashlight
• Traffic cones, reflective triangles and/or emergency flares

Important Steps to Take

• Don't leave the accident scene. Think safety first. Check to see the extent of injuries of those involved and call 9-1-1 if needed. Don't move anyone suffering from back or neck injuries unless absolutely necessary.
• If possible, move vehicles off the road. If not, put on hazard lights and display flares or other warning devices.
• Notify the police. When they arrive note their names and badge numbers and later ask for a copy of their accident report.
• Obtain personal information from others involved, including: names, addresses, telephone numbers, insurance company name and policy number, driver's license and license plate numbers.
• Talk to passengers of other involved cars and any witnesses who saw the accident. Get their names and contact information.
• If a driver is different than the insured, note the name and address of both and their relationship.
• Note applicable vehicle information such as make, model, year, color, position of all cars at the time of the accident and a written note of what caused the accident. Take photos from all angles.
• Don't admit to anyone at the scene that the accident was your fault, even if you believe it was.
• Call your insurance company as soon as possible. The sooner they know, the sooner they can send someone out to investigate.
• Notify your lawyer.

Knowing what to do after a car accident and doing it can make a big difference as to how it all settles out. Always protect yourself and consider your own best interests.