When in an accident you may not know what to do immediately after the accident. It is important to be extremely careful and not to panic. The best way to remain calm in these situations is to be knowledge of the proper procedures and to be prepared with all the necessary items.
It is a good idea to have some type of warning mechanism stored in the trunk of your car to alert other drivers to your presence. Emergency flares, cones, or warning triangles are great to have ready in case of an accident. Also make sure you always have a pen and you and your family’s medical information in the car at all times.
What you should do immediately after a motor vehicle accident:
1. Try to stay clam.
2. Check for injuries your health and well being is the most important thing. If you have any concerns about your health call an ambulance. It is always better safe then sorry.
3. If the car is only has minor damage try to pull out of traffic.
4. Make sure your hazards lights are on and if you do have any warning mechanisms, such as flares place them behind your vehicle
5. Make sure to that the police are called along with your insurance agency.
6. Never sign any document unless the police ask you to sign a report.
7. Make notes about damage to all vehicles involved and get drivers license and insurance information from all parties involved
8. Never take fault for the accident or accuse others involved.
9. If you have a camera handy or a camera phone it may be wise to take pictures of the accident if it is safe to do so.
10. If at all possible leave the scene of the accident after the police and other parties
11. Finally, if you believe that other parties were at fault. Contact a personal injury lawyer to make sure you are treated fairly and get the settlement you deserve.
Safety should always be your primary concern if your car is seriously damage do not try to move it and if you are on the highway call the police and do not leave your car until they arrive, unless absolutely necessary.
