There’s no question about it. Being involved in a car wreck is an incredibly traumatic experience, and it can be extremely challenging to know precisely the right “car accident protocol” to follow. After all, it’s not every day that someone is involved in a car accident like this.
While it can be really tough to keep your cool and think clearly with a level head, the immediate steps after a car crash can decidedly make or break your case.
This article outlines the recommended post-accident procedures to help improve your chances of having a positive outcome for your case.
7 Tips on What To Do After a Car Accident
Having a checklist of the appropriate actions to take in the aftermath of an auto collision can be a helpful reminder of what to do in the heat of the moment.
1. Check for Injuries and Move to Safety
The first thing to do is assess the scene for immediate injuries and move people and vehicles off the roadway and out of harm’s way. However, do not move anyone or anything unless you can safely do so.
2. Phone the Police
Texas law requires that you phone the police for any car accident in which there was an injury or more than $1,000 in property damage was incurred. Plus, it’s always a good idea to dial 911 and let them make a judgment call. You will also want to call the police so that they can take a report that can ultimately be used to support your case claims.
3. Document the Scene
The evidence gathered at the scene of the crash can help prove both who caused the accident and the total extent of property damage. It’s recommended to take pictures of the vehicles involved, your injuries, and anything notable about the crash site, including traffic signals, signs, weather conditions, road hazards, or other obstacles.
4. Exchange Contact Information
Be sure to exchange contact information with the other driver(s), including their full name, phone number, and email address. You should also get their vehicle license plate number, their driver’s license information, and their insurance card. If you have a smartphone, you can photograph these documents for your records.
5. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you think you survived the crash without even a scratch, it’s still imperative to visit the doctor and get checked out. You may have experienced an injury you weren’t even aware of. Further, if you fail to see a doctor immediately, the insurance company could argue that any injury you attempt to claim is exaggerated or fraudulent.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
No matter who you actually believe is at fault for the accident, you need to notify your insurance company about what happened. Be as detailed and accurate as possible to help facilitate their investigation. However, you should never admit fault or make any kind of statement, like an apology, that can be interpreted as confessing liability.
7. Contact an Attorney
If you have any injuries whatsoever, it’s strongly recommended that you contact a personal injury attorney. An attorney can gather more information about your case and help you navigate the claims process. While you recover from your injuries, your attorney will do the heavy lifting and seek compensation for your claim.
It’s not uncommon for the at-fault party’s insurance company to drag its feet or minimize a settlement offer. Personal injury attorneys tend to be well-versed in these underhanded tactics and can aggressively represent your legal interests.
Contact an Experienced Texas Car Accident Attorney
At The Dow Law Firm, our experienced legal team has a successful track record in car accident claims. For a free case evaluation, call us at (512) 240-9951 or contact us online.