Published on September 7th, 2022
No one wants to be involved in a car crash, but once you’re in one, what do you do? Over a person’s lifetime, they will likely be impacted or involved in a car crash. With these odds and increased distractions on the road, it’s essential for drivers to know how to protect themselves.
The ideal protection is driving safely, following traffic laws, and ensuring your vehicle is in good working order. But one key ingredient to safety is out of your control — other drivers. This variable means that it’s on you to know how to navigate the minutes, days, and weeks after a crash.
1. Stay At The Scene
If you’ve learned anything from watching the evening news or prime-time television, it’s that leaving the scene is a no-go. After a crash, do your best to remain calm and assess the situation. You may be tempted to move your vehicle, but avoid doing so unless advised by law enforcement. Changing the scene can make it hard for law enforcement to identify what happened.
Accidents are disruptive, and it may be inconvenient for you to wait around, especially if you feel fine. However, a car accident is a fair reason to miss an appointment or work start time. Stick around to state your account with law enforcement. If you don’t, you’ll lose your voice, and if found at fault, could be in greater trouble. If you’re not at fault, it’s important to stay if you’re going to file a claim.
2. Cooperate With Law Enforcement And First Responders
First responders and law enforcement officers are there to help you, and they’re no strangers to car accidents. Cooperate with their requests and honestly answer their questions. Your cooperation now helps to build your credibility as any post-accident case is created.
Generally, police officers will create a report that will include when, where, and who was involved in the crash. Answer honestly, but avoid volunteering unnecessary details. If you haven’t already, retrieve your license, registration, and car insurance information for the officer. Willingly provide this information, as it helps build rapport and makes it easier to interact with others on the scene.
If a paramedic requests to examine you for injuries, cooperate to get a full assessment of your condition. Be honest with how you’re feeling and opt for a full-body exam. Get documentation on their findings, and be aware of how you’re feeling in the days after an accident. Some soft-tissue injuries and whiplash symptoms take time to appear.
As you ease back into your normal routine, you may notice more discomfort. Reference your initial exam on-site and schedule a follow-up appointment with a provider for a second exam. If anything is worse or new, add this information to your documentation about the car crash.
3. Take Photos, Notes, And Document Information
In moments of stress, you may find yourself eager to talk and recount the accident to anyone who will listen. Pause before you over-share. In your stressed-out state, it’s possible you could twist your words around. Instead, take notes about what happened before the crash, during the event, and after. If you keep a notebook in the car, this is a good place to document your recent memory. If not, the note app on your phone can be a great alternative.
When the officer on scene deems it’s safe and you’re physically able, exit the car to take photos and videos. Use video to get a whole view of the scene, circle each vehicle, and zoom in on details. Afterward, you can pause the video and take screenshots to get photos of specific areas of interest.
Get each license plate, impacted parts of the cars, and insurance information documented. Usually, the officer will help those involved exchange information, as speaking to one another is not advised. Never admit fault, even if it’s possible that you were the cause of the crash.
4. Get a Personal Injury Lawyer On Your Case
Driving, while one of the most common activities most people do each day, is dangerous. And if you’ve been involved in an accident, it can open up more than just injury risk. Bad actors can take advantage of those involved in a car crash, even causing them for personal gain. That’s why it’s essential that you advocate for your best interests, even if your case seems simple. Understand the importance of documenting the event and understanding the post-crash process.
Partnering with a personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the days after a crash, which can often be overwhelming. Insurance paperwork, doctor’s assessments, and repair quotes are just the beginning. Usually, a car crash represents time away from work, family, and other interests, which all have a cost. If you’re getting medical care, you’re dipping into your own wallet for visits and treatment. Suddenly, a small crash can have multiple consequences.
With a qualified personal injury lawyer, you’ll have an advocate who’s specialized in situations like yours. Instead of going into it as a novice, you’ll be backed by a professional who understands what’s ahead. With a partner, you’ll likely be able to come out on the other side better than you would alone.
Look Out for Your Best Interests, Even if You’re Not at Fault
Car accidents happen and, when they do, insurance companies and individuals involved are looking for someone to blame. And if you’re not careful, it’s possible to be deemed at fault for an accident you didn’t cause.
Look out for your best interests at every step in the post-crash process. Doing so isn’t incompassionate, it’s a smart way to protect you, your financial standing, and your reputation. Document what happened, cooperate with the authorities, and partner with a lawyer to help you navigate the days ahead.
