Being in a car accident is scary and stressful. While your first reaction may be shock or panic, it's important to follow key steps to protect yourself, comply with laws, and facilitate the claims process. Here is a step-by-step guide to what to do after a car accident.
At the Scene of the Accident
If you're in an accident:
- Immediately stop your vehicle and put your hazard lights on to prevent further collisions. Move out of traffic lanes if safely possible. Call 911 for medical help if anyone is injured.
- Check on the other driver and passengers involved and see if emergency care is needed for injuries. Render reasonable aid.
- If vehicles are moveable, shift them out of the flow of traffic. Turn your wheels to the curb and avoid further damage.
- Exchange insurance, contact, license, and vehicle information with the other driver. Get their insurance company, policy and claim numbers. Also identify witnesses and get their contact details.
- Take clear, time-stamped photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and the accident scene from multiple angles as evidence.
Report the Incident Promptly
- Notify the police promptly after the accident, even for minor collisions. Provide a factual, detailed account of what happened. Get a copy of the police report.
- Call your insurance provider as soon as possible to file a claim. Provide your policy number, time/location of incident, involved parties, and basic details about what occurred and damage sustained.
- Do not admit fault or make recorded statements to other parties until you consult your insurer. Give an objective account focusing on just the facts.
Seek Any Necessary Medical Attention
- If you or other involved parties are injured, transport or have someone take you to an emergency room or see your doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Describe symptoms in detail and follow treatment plans.
- Request copies of all medical records related to accident injuries to support claims or lawsuits. Keep precise records of doctor visits, tests, procedures, prescriptions, etc.
Document the Incident Thoroughly
- Take additional photos later of injuries sustained, vehicle damage, and evidence like skid marks or guardrails impacted.
- Save any related receipts for repairs, medical treatment, and other accident-related expenses if you intend to seek reimbursement.
- Try to get witness statements at the scene or follow up later if they left relevant contact information. Witness accounts help determine fault.
Start the Claims Process with Your Insurer
- Cooperate fully with your insurer's investigation of the claim. Provide any supplemental evidence requested, like photos, witness statements, or medical records.
- Fill out necessary claim forms thoroughly and accurately. Get estimates for vehicle repairs or have your insurer assess damage.
- Review the claim settlement offer carefully. Negotiate respectfully if it seems inadequate before accepting.
Handle Any Resulting Injuries
- Follow doctor's orders carefully for proper recovery from any accident injuries sustained. Keep attending appointments until released.
- Log all medical bills, prescriptions, transportation for treatment, and other accident-related costs. These expenses can often be recovered through an injury claim settlement.
- To receive compensation for injuries, negotiate an equitable settlement or work with an attorney to determine if filing a personal injury lawsuit is warranted.
Repair Vehicle Damage Responsibly
- Take your car to a licensed body shop and get a repair estimate. Many insurers work with partner repair shops. Choose where to get repairs done.
- Pay your collision coverage deductible upfront if applicable. Review repairs before picking up your vehicle. Save receipts for rental cars.
- Money from your property damage settlement can reimburse deductible payments and rental car fees if the other party is liable.
Don't Stay with an Insurer Just for Loyalty
- If you had a poor claims experience, reevaluate whether to stay with your insurer at renewal time. Get quotes from competitors.
- Changing insurers is not disloyal if another company offers better service, lower rates, or fewer issues during the claims process.
- Leaving after an accident may be warranted based on how the insurer handles the situation and treats you. Don't stay out of obligation.
Carefully following these steps after a car accident helps protect your rights, facilitate the claims process, and potentially recover accident-related expenses. Being informed on what to do after a crash brings the best outcome from an unfortunate situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About What to Do After an Accident (FAQ)
What should you do at the scene of a minor accident?
Stop immediately, move vehicles if possible, call police, exchange information with the other driver, photograph damage, and report to insurers promptly.
How long do you have to file an insurance claim after an accident?
Notify your provider immediately. Most policies require reporting as soon as reasonably possible, often within 24-48 hours.
Can you file a personal injury lawsuit after accepting a settlement?
Usually not - settlements require waiving the right to further legal action. Only accept if the amount is fair.
Is it fraud if accident details are recorded inaccurately?
Potentially - knowingly providing false info on police reports and claims constitutes insurance fraud.
When should you contact a lawyer after a car accident?
If injuries are severe, claims are denied, or settlement offers seem unreasonable. Lawyers can negotiate higher settlements.