How Do You Handle the Aftermath of Your Car Accident?

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Common Questions and Answers About Auto Accidents Treatment of Auto Accident Injuries in New Jersey How Do You Handle the Aftermath of Your Car Accident? Car Accidents
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Negosentro.com | How Do You Handle the Aftermath of Your Car Accident? | Car accidents can ruin your day, especially when you are going to work or have an appointment. Accidents may not necessarily happen due to reckless driving; even a careful driver can cause an accident since car accidents are sometimes unavoidable. You may be upset at the other party, but it is essential to stay calm and write down what happened. Below is a list of what to do to handle the aftermath of the accident. 

Assess Yourself for Injuries 

Immediately after the accident happens check for injuries. Pay attention to your body and how you are feeling. Call for an ambulance and check with medical personnel at the scene for a proper examination. In case you have passengers, ensure they are also checked for injuries. Some injuries may not be visible or detected immediately after the accident due to the shock experienced. Seeking further medical attention will assure you of your wellness. 

Call the Police 

Calling the police to the scene will help in the investigation. Give accurate and measurable information about what happened to the investigating officer and ensure they record every bit of information. Whether the accident was fatal or not, it is essential to involve the police so that you can file a report. Ensure the other party involved records a statement with the police, as well. 

Move the Cars out of Traffic 

If the accident happened in the flow of traffic, move the vehicles onto the side of the road. You can only do this if the vehicles experienced minor damages and are movable. Driving the cars out of traffic will prevent other accidents from happening. Using warning signs such as hazard lights, flashlights, and reflective emergency triangles will alert oncoming vehicles. 

Take Pictures 

If you have a smartphone with you, take photos of the surrounding area and visible damages of the vehicle. Take pictures of visible injuries you experienced and ensure you keep them well as they act as evidence when filing a lawsuit. 

Gather Information 

To have enough evidence of what happened at the scene. Gathering information and writing down every detail of the accident is a good idea. Include the date and time of the accident and where it happened. You can also use apps provided by state law and insurance companies to record audio and document the accident. WreckCheck is an example of an app to use and save your information in your email or share it with your attorney. Collect the other driver’s name, address, and phone number. You also need necessary information about the driver’s insurance company: the name and the insurance company policy number. Gathering information from witnesses will also give you the additional information that you may not have seen while in the car. 

Contact Your Insurance Company 

Call your insurance company, and if they can come to the scene, the better so that they can collect accurate information with the help of the investigating officer. The insurance company will cover your expenses, such as medical bills. 

Limit Your Conversation with the Other Driver 

Minimize discussing the incident with the other party to ensure you don’t plead guilty or admit any liability. The only people you need to talk to at the scene are the investigating officers, insurance representatives, and medics. Avoid signing any papers unless the police require it. 

Consult Your Attorney 

Seeking legal advice from an attorney will guide you on what information to share with the insurance company, police officer, and other driver. Your injury lawyer will protect your rights and the evidence at the scene. It is easy to get a car accident lawyer since no legal fee is required to retain one. Keep a file of all your information and documents collected at the scene to help you file a claim later. The lawyer will help you get full compensation for the damages and injuries caused by the accident. After the settlement, the lawyer is paid. 

It is always essential to ensure you carry all vehicle documents everywhere because car accidents can happen at any time. These documents will help you avoid inconveniences and penalties. Some of the necessary documents you need to include are a driving license, insurance card, and motor vehicle accident checklist.

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