Car accidents can occur anywhere and anytime, and even the most experienced drivers can find them frightening experiences. After a car accident, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what steps to take next. Knowing what to do after a car accident can significantly affect the outcome. One crucial step is to call the appropriate people to assist you during the accident; knowing who to call after a car accident is vital. Assess your physical condition and that of others involved, exchange information with the other driver, and document the accident scene with photos. Avoid admitting guilt, as it may be used against you later. Take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others involved in the car accident. Knowing what happens after a car accident can lessen the uncertainty and help manage the situation.
Call 911
Do you call 911 for a car accident? Getting into a car accident can be scary, but knowing who to call for help is essential. The first person you should reach out to is 911. When you call 911, they will dispatch the police to the scene to take a report of the accident. This report will contain crucial details like the date, time, and location of the incident, as well as the names and contact information of the drivers involved. Additionally, the police can help organize medical assistance if necessary. By calling 911, you’ll take the necessary steps to ensure everyone involved in the accident receives the help they need.
Check for Injuries
It’s important to remember that amid all the chaos, the safety and well-being of yourself and others involved should be the primary concern. The first step to take in the aftermath of a car accident is to assess any injuries. Whether you are the driver or a passenger, it’s crucial to determine if anyone is hurt and needs medical attention. If so, don’t hesitate to call for assistance right away. It’s always better to err on the side of caution regarding potential injuries. Even if everyone appears physically okay, it’s still important to report the accident to the police. They can help assess the situation and document any damages or potential legal issues.
Document the Accident Scene
After calling the police, another crucial step involves documenting the accident scene. You should take photos of all vehicles involved from various angles and gather the names and phone numbers of witnesses who saw the incident happen. Additionally, insurance information should be exchanged with the other parties involved in the accident. While it may seem like a hassle, this information becomes crucial when filing a claim with your insurance company. By taking the time to document the accident scene, you help ensure a smoother resolution process for the incident.
Call in your Emergency Contacts
Emergency contact details on your phone can be lifesaving if you are seriously injured in a car accident. Make sure you have a list of emergency contacts in your phone and write them somewhere in your car or wallet. These contacts can be your family members, close friends, or anyone you can rely on during an emergency.
Call a Towing Company
Knowing what steps to take afterward is essential, mainly what to do with your car. If your car is not drivable, you must call a towing company. Once they arrive, they will take your car to a repair shop or towing yard, depending on the severity of the damages. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, but remember that you can always ask the police for recommendations on which towing company to use or refer to your insurance company for a list of approved companies. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your car is taken care of and that you can focus on your recovery.
Call Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company within the first few hours of the incident to report the accident and initiate the claim process. Remember to have accurate details about the accident, including the police report and any relevant medical records if there are injuries. Your insurance provider will guide you through the claims process, offering advice on car repairs and arranging a rental car if necessary. Acting promptly and providing accurate information will expedite the process and resolve the situation with minimal hassle.
Seek Legal Help
If the car accident resulted in severe injuries or significant property damage, you may need to consider seeking legal help. Knowing what to do in an accident can reduce stress and ensure everyone involved takes care of each other. Our experienced Toledo car accident attorneys can guide you through the complex legal process and help you obtain full compensation for your damages. At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, we provide a free consultation to help you determine your next steps. If you’ve been in an accident and need assistance, don’t hesitate to call us at 419-843-6663 or use our convenient online contact form.
With a local personal injury attorney near you, help is just a phone call away.
Jeff joined GT&B in 2008 as a law clerk. After graduation, he worked in election law. In 2011, he returned to GT&B as an Associate, focusing on personal injury cases like auto accidents, premises liability, general negligence, wrongful death, and dog bites. Now a Senior Associate in the Personal Injury department, he is passionate about protecting his clients who have suffered injuries through no fault of their own and ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
