Did you know that 33,654 fatal motor accidents happened in the United States in a year?
Getting into a car accident can be disorienting. This applies regardless of the severity of the situation. If you don’t know what to do after a car accident, you might end up worse for the wear.
With this guide, you’ll learn the steps to take after a car accident. That way, your health, and finances won’t suffer. Read on and find out more:
1. Check for Injuries
A car accident injury is the eighth leading cause of death across the world, regardless of age group. That’s why you must be quick to determine if anyone got injured by the car crash. If so, call 911 to get both an ambulance and police assistance.
Even when the accident is minor and everyone involved are cooperative, calling the police is important. It ensures that you have an official report of the incident. This is important for your insurance company.
2. Go to a Safer Area
If the car works, move it to off the road. Doing this ensures that the vehicles involved in the crash won’t get hit by other approaching cares. That way, the accident won’t get compounded become disastrous.
Use flares if you have them. Use them as a warning to other vehicles. It’s also best to clear the area in case an explosion may happen.
3. Document the Accident and Exchange Information
Depending on your location, the amount of information you must give varies. In most cases, you tell them your name and insurance information to other involved drivers. Limit your interaction since you might end up admitting guilt or blaming the other party.
Draw a diagram of the scene and take some notes about the accident. This includes the direction of each vehicle before the crash happened.
4. Think About Your Insurance Coverage
Your insurance claims depend on the person at fault and the coverage of both parties. Assuming the other party is at fault, the other driver’s property damage liability coverage will pay for your repairs until it reaches its limits. As for medical injuries, their bodily injury liability coverage will cover it up to its limits.
5. Decide Whether to File Claims
If you’re at fault, it’s better to call a car accident attorney. That way, you have a better idea of whether it’s wise to file an insurance claim. Take note, it’s tempting to pay cash when the damage looks minor.
However, some minor-looking damages can cost you at least $3,000. Don’t risk financial strains and get an auto accident attorney to help you.
Learn the Steps to Take After a Car Accident Today
Getting into a car accident doesn’t mean that you have to suffer more than you already have. Know the steps to take after a car accident to ensure you can get yourself taken care of today!
Do you want to learn more about what to do after different accidents? Check out more of our guides to learn all you can today!
