Seemingly, car accidents happen suddenly and in the blink of an eye. Immediately after an accident we are concerned with the well being of ourselves and our passengers. The shock and panic felt directly after an accident crowds are mental capacity and there is little else we can think about. However after an initial assessment we may begin to search for other answers. Answers to who is to blame and what to do next. We feel the need to know who should be responsible for future expenses and settlement. To be properly prepared for this situation keep something like the following material in mind, or possibly even in your glove box. Here are some things that should help you during and after an accident, if it ever happens.
What to do upon the accident:
1. Regain control and try to stop your vehicle. The most difficult thing that can happen is to lose control of your car. If you can, snap to your senses and take control of your car to avoid danger for other people. Hazard lights must be immediately turned on.
2. As much as possible, keep yourself away from the vehicle. As soon as you were able to stop your car, it is best that you keep your distance from the car and oncoming traffic. Do not attempt to check the vehicle as it might worsen the damage or cause danger to those who are nearby. Warn those who may attempt to come close.
3. Asses yourself for injuries and ask for help. Make sure that you are free from danger. After doing so, check yourself and your companions for injuries. If it is possible for you to shout, shout for help. Ask those who are nearby to call for medical assistance. If they can, it would also be better to call the police as the accident may cause traffic.
What to do after the accident:
1. Get information of the other party. It is important to make sure that the information the other party provided is real. If possible, ask for proper identification like the driver’s license. Get the information of everyone involved, never miss the other passengers. Even if a police report is taken it is important to get the information for your records as well. Police reports can take weeks, you may need the information days later.
2. Look for witnesses and obtain their statements. Other motorists and people who were passing by may have seen the incident. Ask for their name and their contact number. If the police have not arrived yet, asked them for statements regarding the accident.
3. Cooperate with the police when they arrive, and obtain a copy of the police report. Prepare yourself for questioning. It is important that you only tell the police what really happened, and keep yourself calm when the other party is giving their side of the story. Keep the witness statements with you as they may support your own statements. After the investigation, ask the police when is the best possible time to obtain your copy of the report. Stay in the area until the police allow you to leave.
4. When everything is settled with the police, contact your insurance company. Prior to doing this, make sure that you have the necessary documents you need for your claim. This phase may add up to your stress, but it is always best to comply with their policies.
5. Seek Medical Attention if needed and an attorney. Most Law Firms offer free consultations with no obligation. Handling the aftermath of an accident is something certain Law Firms deal with everyday. Protect your rights and future by hiring a professional.
Getting involved in a car accident is never a desire. But sometimes no matter how we try to avoid it, it happens. Unfortunately most of the time, it is because of heedlessness. Keep you focus and concentration to keep away from the trouble of accidents.
