No matter how small the accident, they are all stressful. Maybe someone just hit your bumper or maybe they hit you after running a red light; either way, it can be difficult to know what you should do after an accident occurs and you’re all anxious and a little disoriented.
Before you or the other driver contact an auto accident attorney, there are a few things that you need to do. Here is an easy step-by-step guide of what you should do after an accident.
Move to a Safe Area
If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location and out of the way of oncoming cars. The easiest thing to do is generally move your vehicle off to the shoulder of the road. If, however, you are injured or your vehicle has too much damage to be moved safely, flip on your hazards.
Turn Everything Off
Once you have moved your vehicle to a safe location—at least turned on your hazards—turn your vehicle off and put it in park. Take a moment to just breathe. Before you get out of your car, check to make sure it is safe.
Check on the Other Driver
Make sure that the other driver and any other people involved are safe. If anyone is injured, even if it appears to be a minor injury, call 911. Sometimes minor injuries, like dizziness, can be symptoms of more serious problems.
Call the Police
Even if the accident is minor, it is always a good idea to call 911 and request that an officer come to the scene of the crash. Police accident reports prove invaluable when dealing with insurance companies. Remember, don’t admit fault and avoid blaming the other driver when you are at the scene. This is especially important and will help both you and your auto accident attorney if a lawsuit commences.
Gather Information
Gathering all necessary information while at the scene will help everyone involved, including an auto accident attorney if a lawsuit commences. Be sure to gather as much information as possible including the names, phone numbers and addresses of all parties involved, accident location, license plate numbers, insurance information and the name and badge number of any police officers called to the scene.
Document the Scene
Document the scene and take pictures of all vehicles involved, including an image showing the location of the incident. This will help your insurance company and, if necessary, your auto accident attorney.
If you have incurred injury as the result of an auto accident, call an auto accident attorney today. We have locations all over Utah, including St. George and Ogden, so we are sure to have an auto accident attorney near you that can help.
Sources:
https://www.esurance.com/info/car/how-to-handle-a-car-accident
https://www.geico.com/claims/after-an-accident/