What to Do After a Car Accident: 5 Necessary Steps

Every year, about six million car accidents occur throughout the US. Unfortunately, many people don’t know what to do after a car accident.

The steps you follow could impact your ability to file a car accident claim. You might struggle to defend yourself if someone blames you for the accident, too.

Here are five steps to follow immediately after a car accident. Following these steps can help strengthen your case.

Know what to do after a crash with this guide today.

1. Move to Safety

Immediately after a crash, you’ll likely feel disoriented. Take a breath and try to remember what to do after a car accident.

First, move to a safe area. Make sure your car is safe to drive. If it’s leaking fluids, step away.

If it’s safe to operate your vehicle, move it to the side of the road. Make sure the other driver is nearby.

Then, call the police. 

If anyone sustained serious injuries, call for medical attention right away. 

2. Exchange Information

Exchange contact information with the other driver while you wait for the police to arrive.

Make sure to get their number, address, information, and driver’s license info. Gather information about their car, too. Write down the make, model, color, and license plate. 

Try to avoid small talk. Don’t blame the other driver for what happened, either.

Anything you say could impact your car accident claim in the future.

Gather your own evidence, too. First, write down your recollection of what happened to avoid forgetting anything. Then, take photo and video evidence of the vehicles and your auto accident injuries. 

3. Speak to the Police

In some states, you’re obligated to file an official police report after a car accident. The official police report can also benefit your car accident claim.

Don’t embellish or blame the other driver when you speak to the police. Instead, stick to the facts as you remember them. 

4. Visit a Doctor

About two million drivers in car accidents sustain permanent auto accident injuries each year. After the police clear you to leave, visit a doctor. A doctor’s official assessment can benefit your auto accident claim.

It can also help you avoid developing a lasting disability. You can begin treatment right away before your symptoms get worse.

5. Call a Lawyer

As you recall what to do after a car accident, make sure to call a car accident lawyer. They can help you begin the process of filing a car accident claim.

Look for a personal injury lawyer who specializes in auto accident cases. They’ll understand the laws and procedures pertinent to your case.

They can help you fight for compensation to cover your losses related to the crash.

What to Do After a Car Accident: 5 Essential Tips for Your Case

Immediately after a crash, take a breath and try to remain calm. Then, try to remember these tips on what to do after a car accident. Following these tips will help strengthen your car accident claim.

Then, you can fight to cover your losses.

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