In 2019, 36,120 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes, and this was a decrease from 2018. While statistics can be staggering, even the best drivers can find themselves having a fender bender. If you’ve been in an accident, there are specific things you should do to protect yourself legally.
Here are the steps you should take, so keep reading to learn more about them.
What to Do If You’ve Been in an Accident
No matter who is at fault, it’s essential to make sure you are safe. The first thing to do is pull to the side of the road or the shoulder of the highway and stop. Stay calm and take a few cleansing breaths to relax.
Safety Is the First Priority
Assess whether it’s safe to get out of the car, call for help if you need it, and if you are injured in any way. While you on the edge of the road, turn your hazard lights on to make sure oncoming traffic sees you. Until the police have come to make a report, don’t leave the scene of the accident.
Is Everyone OK?
Depending on where you have your accident, you could be at risk for harm. Like at the bottom of the hill where it may be difficult for other drivers to see you. In this situation, everyone should exit their cars a move out of harm’s way.
If you have traffic cones, use them to warn other drivers. Hazard lights of all vehicles should be kept on and flashing.
Call the Police to the Scene
Even when it seems that no one has injuries that require immediate attention, most states require a police report taken at the scene of an accident. What’s more, most auto insurers will ask for a police report to file a claim.
You should keep the vehicles precisely as they are so that the officer can record their findings when they arrive on the scene.
How to Give an Account to the Police
Before the police arrive is an excellent time to sit down and make notes of what you remember, including the sequence of events, and any details. This information is essential to be prepared when the officer asks.
When asked if you are hurt, the best answer is, “I’m not sure.” Often, injuries appear after you’ve left the scene of the accident. It’s also essential to verify the statements of the others involved to ensure they are accurate in the report.
Take Photos of the Scene of the Accident and Exchange Information
Finally, it’s good to document by taking photos with your smartphone of the scene and damage caused to all vehicles involved. Even if you forget at the time to take pictures of the damage to your car, you should do it as soon as possible.
It’s also vital to exchange information with the other drivers involved, and some of that includes:
- Driver name, address and Driver’s License Information (clicking a photo is best)
- Phone Numbers of everyone involved
- Insurance information
You must take down the information of any witnesses’ accounts of what happened. You may need to give this information to a big city personal injury lawyer.
What’s Next
When you’ve been in an accident, it is essential to protect yourself. These steps can help you make sure you have all the necessary information.
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