Car accidents are among the fourth top cause of preventable death in the United States. Accidents are usually unexpected and traumatic for those who are involved. Even the most careful drivers can end up in an accident at one point in their lives, which means that everybody is at risk. It, therefore, pays to be prepared. In this article, we discuss how you can handle a car crash. Read on to find out the steps you can take after an accident to help improve the outcome.
Stay on the Scene
When a car crash happens, some people flee the scene due to the shock they experience. However, the best action to take in such a case would be to stay on the scene and dial 911. Soon, the police will arrive to document what happened, and their report will come in handy when you claim compensation from your insurance company. In cases where the police cannot come to the scene, you can report to the nearest police station and report the incident according to the laws in your state.
Record Your Statement
When the officers arrive, take it upon yourself to furnish them with all the details of what happened. If you are unsure of anything, let the officer know. Avoid guesswork, speculation, or misinterpretation of the facts as these may work against you. If you are not sure whether you have injuries, say so instead of telling them you do not have any. Note that many people do not feel the impact of motor accidents on the spot, and some injuries and pain only become apparent a long time after the accident. Ensure that the other people involved also make an accurate statement.
Document the Crash
The recommended steps to take so that you are safe and protected after an accident include identifying the officers and taking pictures at the scene. Once the officers arrive, note down their names and badge numbers. Also, take photos of the vehicles involved in different angles, ensuring that you capture the details of the damage that has been done to both cars. It would be helpful to obtain the number plates of the vehicles to help with the claims process.
Additionally, ensure that you write down the names of those who were involved in the accident. Exchange contact information with the other people involved and note down details such as the location, the driver’s license number, and the color and model of the vehicle. Professionals at https://the702firm.com/las-vegas-personal-injury-lawyer/car-accidents/ advise that it is best to avoid discussions about fault at this point. Determining who is at fault should be left to the professionals based on the evidence that will be presented by those present at the accident scene. Keep the information you gathered together in a file for future reference.
Report the Crash
Many insurance companies require you to report an accident as soon as possible. At this point, it would be helpful to establish if your insurance has medical benefits attached to it. If your insurance covers your medical bills, you will be required to submit your accident-related medical bills to the insurer. While the coverage may not pay fully for your medical bills, it can cover a significant portion of it, and the rest can be cleared by your health insurance.
See a Doctor
We mentioned above that some injuries are not immediately apparent when there is a crash. In fact, it might take you a few days before you notice anything out of the ordinary in your body following an automobile accident. However, even minor impact accidents can result in serious injuries such as those of the spinal cord. Some other injuries can be more obvious. For instance, if you feel confused or lose consciousness immediately after an accident, it may be an indication that you suffered a closed head injury. Whichever the case, it is vital that you seek immediate medical attention to ascertain the extent of damage that has been caused in the accident.
In case of a severe injury, like a spinal cord injury, you must follow the advice of your doctor and adhere to any permanent restrictions after spinal fusion surgery. These are often not as life-changing as they may seem at first, and adhering to them can help you maintain a good quality of life.
Contact an Attorney
Contacting an attorney is the last but most crucial step that you need to take when you are involved in an accident. Attorneys have an in-depth understanding of the claims process, which is vital for navigating such cases. Ensure you talk to your attorney before providing the insurance company with your statement for the best outcomes.
Getting involved in an accident is shocking and traumatic. However, your response after the accident can make or break your case with the insurance company. It is essential that you maintain your cool and follow the steps we have outlined here for the best outcomes. No matter the nature of the crash, you can handle it with pride and joy.