Been involved in a car accident? Worried about what to do if you do happen to be involved in one?

Then read on!

car accident

No one likes the idea of being caught up in a car accident, but knowing what to do after you’ve been injured in a car crash – and how to recover compensation for damages – could be the difference between simply getting over your accident and getting the compensation you truly deserve.

If you’re involved in a car accident and you or one of your passengers are injured then you may be able to file a personal injury claim (if you’re looking for a car accident lawyer, then click the link) and this collaborative post reveals all we need to know.

6 things to do after a car accident

1. Make sure you stop at the scene

Stopping at the scene of a crash is a legal requirement, and if you fail to stop you could land yourself in a lot of trouble and any personal injury claim would probably be invalid.  Make sure you bring your vehicle to a halt and turn off your engine. Turn on your hazard warning lights to alert other drivers.

2. Remain calm and check for injuries

Are you hurt? What about your passengers? Assess the injuries sustained within your vehicle and then call an ambulance if needed. If you and your passengers can, exit the vehicle and stand away from the crash site away from oncoming traffic.

car accident

3. Call the police

If there has been a car accident you are legally required to notify the police. If not, then not only are you breaking the law but if you decide to file a personal injury claim then your case could be drastically hindered. Calling the police allows the authorities to create a police report about the incident because determining fault in a car crash is important. A police report will not only be helpful for your insurance claim but also your personal injury case. You’ll be able to have a copy of this police report, so make sure you request one. It’s also a good idea to get the names of the officers who have attended the scene.

4. Gather evidence

If you can, start to gather some evidence. It’s these additional pieces of information and proof that will help prevent any ludicrous insurance claims from the other party, and will also back up your insurance claim and your personal injury case. The following pieces of evidence will help you:

car accident

5. Speak with the other party

Emotions will be running high, but you mustn’t inadvertently accept blame for the accident. Even if you know it wasn’t your fault, many people feel pressured into taking the blame at the scene, so politely decline to speak about who was at fault and instead gather these pieces of information:

  • Their name and address
  • Contact details
  • Insurance details
  • Make, model and colour of vehicle

6. Contact a lawyer

Now you need to focus on getting your life back on track. If necessary, now is the time to speak to a personal injury lawyer about filing a claim.

car accident

Have you been in a car accident before? If you have any top tips please feel free to share!

This is a collaborative post.

If you liked this you may also enjoy reading:

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