First Steps to Take After an Accident

Whether you have experienced a slight “fender bender” with minimal damage and shaken nerves or a major automobile accident involving serious injury or worse, traffic accidents can be emotionally and physically overwhelming.

But even though it may not be easy, it is important to remain calm after an accident. Why? Because the actions you take, especially at the scene of the auto accident, can have a direct impact on the amount of compensation you are eligible for from insurance companies. This is particularly true if another party was at fault in the accident.

What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident

Following are the steps you should take, if possible, when a traffic accident happens to strengthen your case for personal injury compensation:

· Immediately after the accident, assess your injuries and that of others involved.

· Call the police to the accident scene.

· Accept medical treatment at the scene if you feel there is even a remote possibility that you could have been injured. Some accident injuries do not fully surface until days or even weeks after a crash, but refusing medical care at the scene can hurt your chances of receiving all of the compensation you deserve.

· Exchange information with other drivers involved. You will need names, contact information, insurance information and if possible, driver’s license and license plate numbers.

· Take pictures of the accident scene. Cell phone cameras are great for this purpose.

· Talk with any witnesses and get their names and contact information.

· Stay at the accident scene until authorities on site say it is appropriate to leave.

· Use caution in discussing the accident with other parties. Do not offer an apology. That can be used against you as a declaration of guilt.

· Report the accident to your car insurance company, even if you do not believe you will make a claim against your own policy.

· Refrain from providing any written or recorded statement to insurance companies, either your own or that of another driver, until you have discussed your situation with an experienced auto accident attorney.

· Write down details of the accident as soon as you can after the incident. Note factors like potential accident causes, road conditions, weather, other traffic around, presence of traffic signs, etc.

· Keep track of your medical expenses and other costs related to the accident.

Also, as soon as possible after the accident (or even at the scene if it is a highly serious incident), contact a respected auto accident lawyer for advice.