8 Things to Remember after an Auto Accident

Auto accidents are among the most unexpected and stressful events you may experience. In the moments following an auto accident, your emotions are high and you may be unsure of what to do next. At Daic Law, we want to help you be prepared in the event of an auto accident. We have compiled a list of 8 things to remember after an auto accident that can help you stay ahead of the chaos.

Things to Remember after an Auto Accident

While your head may be spinning and you may be unsure of exactly what to do, here are recommendations from our personal injury attorney.

1. Stay at the Accident Scene

If you are involved in an auto accident, even a minor one, you should never leave the scene until it is safe and appropriate to do so. If someone else was injured or killed in the same accident, you could face criminal charges for leaving the scene of the accident or failing to render aid. This is hit-and-run, which carries strict criminal penalties.

2. Assess Injuries

Before you assess the extent of damage to your vehicle, first make sure that all drivers and passengers involved are stable and in a safe location until help arrives. If there are serious injuries or someone is unconscious, do not attempt to move them on your own.

3. Call the Police

Always call the police following an auto accident. This tip is especially important in cases where there are injuries. Complete a police report and get the name and information of each officer you speak with.

4. Gather Information

Gather information from other drivers and their vehicles, including:

License plate number
Driver’s license information
Contact information (name, address, etc.)
Insurance company and contact information

Also gather the same information for witnesses to the accident.

5. Take Photos

In today’s digital age, documenting auto accident damage is easier than ever. Take photos of the accident scene, any damage to vehicles, and anything else that seems relevant to the accident. Some ideas include roadway debris, damage to signs or structures, skid marks on the road, hazards, etc.

6. Contact your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company to inform them you have been in an accident. Provide any relevant information they ask for. Be truthful and include information from the police report. Never admit fault or guilt, or offer information the insurance company doesn’t ask for.

If your insurance company denies your claim or underpays for your losses, contact an attorney.

7. Get Medical Attention and Records

If you were injured in an auto accident, you should get medical attention. It is important to keep in mind that immediately following an auto accident you may be unaware of pain or injuries due to heightened levels of adrenaline, shock, etc. Assessing the situation and your injuries is important, but realize that you may not be in the best mindset to truly assess the situation. Inflammation may set in hours after an injury took place. Always consult with a medical professional about your health. It is better to get the treatment that you need now rather than live with pain or serious injuries later on.

Also, it is important that you keep any copies of medical expenses, treatment plans, medications, and any out-of-pocket expenses related to your injuries. It can also be helpful to keep a journal detailing how your injuries have affected your daily life. Make sure your doctor documents your injuries as being related to an auto accident.

8. Beware of Settlement Offers

If you start receiving calls or letters asking you to settle your claim, beware! You may not get the full amount of compensation you are entitled to. Often, injuries sustained in an auto accident are not immediately noticeable, and a settlement should not occur before you receive proper evaluation and treatment.

Get Help with Your Auto Accident Case

If you have questions about what to do after an auto accident, or need help getting compensation, contact Daic Law today. We can help you learn more about your rights and how you can maximize your recovery. Send us an email to info@daiclaw.com, or call us at 877-893-6040. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to every potential client.