A car accident is never planned, and whether you were run off the road, hit while driving through an intersection or rear-ended while stopped at a stop sign, it is important to know what to do following the incident.

First and foremost, you should never leave the scene of an accident. You could incur criminal penalties for being a hit and run driver, especially if people were injured or killed in the accident.

This leads to the next step, which is to seek medical attention if necessary. Check yourself and any passengers involved in the incident. If a serious injury is sustained, wait for the proper medical assistance to arrive.

Deciding whether or not to call the police can depend on the severity of the accident. If there are physical injuries or even death or property damage you should call the police. A filed police report can help later on down the road with legal proceedings.

It is also important to exchange information with the other driver in the accident. Ask for the name, phone number, driver’s license and license plate numbers, address and insurance information. Be sure to be friendly and calm when interacting with the other driver. If available, also seek out any information from witnesses and what they saw.

It is also important to document the incident. Take photos of any damages to your vehicle and any damaged property. Again, this evidence can prove crucial later on, especially when compared to photos of your vehicle before the accident.

The aforementioned steps are essential to take immediately following an accident but there are still steps that should be taken as soon as possible.

It is important to inform your insurance company of the accident as soon as you can. File a claim and be honest with what took place and about any injuries sustained. Lying to your insurance company can result in denial of coverage for the incident, which only burdens you further.

In order to continue helping yourself, you should document any steps taken in regards to medical treatment. Keep track of any doctors, chiropractors, medical professionals, etc. that you receive treatment from, as well as any treatments or medications you receive. If possible, get copies of all medical bills and reports. These documents serve as proof of medical expenses later on.

You can also keep track of how the injuries from the accident altered your day-to-day activities. This can range from days missed at work to any daily activities you can no longer do. It is important to detail the changes in your daily life in order to prove your pain and suffering.

When it comes down to it, if anyone was injured during the car accident it is important to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. A qualified attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve and help navigate legal proceedings while you recover. Schedule a consultation with the Law Offices of Salter Ferguson, LLC today by filling out our convenient online contact form – and get the justice you deserve.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney/client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.