According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were just under six million police-reported traffic crashes in 2022 (the latest data). All of these happen in a matter of seconds, but their consequences can be long-lasting.
Beyond the immediate issues like shock and disruption come medical costs, insurance complications, and legal questions to answer. It can be so helpful to know what to do in the hours and days after an accident. To protect your health, finances, and legal rights after an accident, here are some steps to follow:
Sort Safety and Medical Needs Before Anything Else
The first priority of anyone involved in an accident is safety. This will look different depending on the nature of the accident, but you should:
- Get out of the vehicle as quickly as possible
- Move the vehicle to a safer place
- Call the emergency services (police, fire, ambulance)
- Get medical attention as soon as possible
You might feel like your injuries are minor or non-existent, but it’s vital to see a doctor as soon as possible. Issues like whiplash or internal injuries don’t always show up straight away. Adrenaline and shock can make things feel less painful.
Document the Scene
As soon as safety is taken care of, document the accident scene. This is valuable information for insurance claims. Take photos of:
- The vehicles involved
- Damage to vehicles/the road/other structures
- The road conditions
- Visibility
- Traffic signs
- Street lighting
- Visible injuries
Collect witness contact details so they can help clarify what happened. Always exchange information with the other parties involved:
- Names
- Vehicle make and model
- Registration numbers
- Insurance details
When exchanging information, don’t use any language that could indicate blame. Don’t apologize. Even when you could be at fault. Statements should be factual and limited to what is known at the time.
Report the Accident
Most insurance companies require you to report accidents quickly. This is true even if you don’t plan to make a claim. Delays can complicate things, or they might mean you have coverage issues.
Sometimes, you might need to report the accident to the police. This is particularly the case for accidents involving serious injuries or significant damage. An official police report can later help in compensation claims as an independent record of events.
Liability and Legal Options
Determining who is legally responsible for a car accident isn’t straightforward. Fault may be shared, or liability could depend on evidence like traffic laws, witness accounts, and expert analysis.
Consider speaking to a qualified car accident attorney. Legal professionals can explain how local laws apply. They can assess the strength of a claim and handle all communication with insurers. Always choose a local attorney because they will be familiar with state-specific regulations and court procedures.
Avoid Unintentional Mistakes
You may not realize it at the time, but small things can weaken your claim, including:
- Delaying medical treatment
- Giving recorded statements without legal advice first
- Accepting a quick settlement before you know the full impact of your injuries
Insurance offers made early on tend not to reflect long-term medical costs, lost income, or ongoing pain. It’s important you understand the full picture before you agree to any resolution.
Endnote
Recovering from a car accident can be physically and emotionally demanding. By taking the right steps early on and seeking appropriate legal guidance, you will be better positioned to protect your interests.
William Gall is a seasoned attorney specializing in civil litigation and family law. With a legal career spanning over two decades, William has built a reputation for his meticulous attention to detail and his unwavering commitment to justice. In addition to practicing law, he is a prolific writer, contributing regularly to various legal blogs where he shares his insights on current legal trends, case law, and best practices. His articles are well-regarded in the legal community for their thorough research and practical advice, making complex legal concepts accessible to both legal professionals and the general public.