You’re driving home from a family outing, and everything is right with the world. Your house is right around the corner, but another vehicle meets you before you can get there. The day that was going so well, turned bad very fast. Your car is wrecked.
Car crashes in the United States are an unfortunately common occurrence, with an average of a whopping 6 million accidents a year. Many times, people don’t know what to do after a car crash.
Here is a simple guide to the steps you should make immediately after a car crash and later to make this bad situation better than what it can be.
- Be Sure to Call 911
Sometimes after an accident, those involved will often be shocked at what has just happened. However, by law you are obligated to contact the police and report the incident when an accident has occurred, especially if someone has been injured. Hit and runs are illegal.
If there is a person injured, do not to move them. This can end up causing more problems for them.
- Canvas Witnesses of the Incident
Once everyone is checked out and in a safe position away from ongoing traffic, try to canvas the area of the scene; look for any witnesses that were present at the time of the accident. This is helpful for you in the event there is a dispute.
This also helps to get as much information as possible to give to the reporting officer to the scene. However, do not leave the scene, as this will cause more issues.
- Gathering Evidence
Now that the canvassing is done, you can begin gathering evidence of the accident itself. Taking pictures of the damages and any other vital information is crucial for when the police finally do show up.
Take pictures of your car and the other person’s car as well. Try to get as much information as possible. For more information about gathering this evidence, be sure to check out Sargentlawfirm.com.
- Don’t Admit Any Fault
Although not all crashes may be dire situations, you never want to admit to any fault for the accident. Do not give any excessive information that could prove to your detriment or what that accident obviously shows.
Do not admit to any wrongdoing that may implicate or incriminate you. You want to cooperate fully, but not put yourself in a bad position by adding more than what is necessary.
Do not sign anything that does not come from the police or your insurance, and always be truthful. You can be criminally charged for agreeing to withhold evidence from the police.
- In the Long Run
Be sure to file a claim of your car accident with your insurance company. The insurance provider should be able to walk you through the process.
Also be mindful of the laws that govern how you must deal the car accident in your state.
What to Do After a Car Crash
Car crashes can be shocking, frustrating, and inconvenient. But you can limit its effects on you by making sure you stay calm and know what to do after a car crash. Taking the proper next steps after a car crash is important.
Not all days will be great, but if you have a car accident make sure you are prepared. For other great articles like this one, be sure to visit the rest of our blog.