Whether you’re a new driver or an experienced one, a car accident can be overwhelming. It’s easy to get shocked and feel stressed. But in a time of emergency, it’s important to stay calm and focus on the matter at hand. If you’re involved in a crash or a fender bender, here’s what you should do:
Contact Authorities and Representatives
You should hire an attorney to help with the legal matters of the case. But it’s important not to just hire anyone with a law degree. You should contact a personal injury lawyer. Because they have experience with comparable cases, they already know what to do and how to get you fair compensation. In this instance, fair means that all inconveniences are accounted for. In traffic accidents, cars aren’t the only ones affected. If you have to take time off work or if you have to get medical treatment, an attorney can help ensure that you get compensated.
Whether it be a minor or major road accident, you should call the police. It’s also best to get an official police report for insurance claims. The officers can also help by diffusing tense situations, organizing the traffic, and identifying the party at fault.
Communicate with the Other Driver
In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to be careless with words. But after a traffic accident, remember to avoid saying phrases such as “I’m sorry” or “it’s my fault.” You might be overwhelmed with emotions and say similar phrases even though they are not true. Your words can be used against you. In complicated cases, when it’s not clear or obvious who’s at fault, every little detail matters.
Before you leave the scene, don’t forget to ask the contact details of the other people involved. You should also get the name and policy of their insurance company.
Document Everything
If you’re among the 96% of Americans who own a cellphone, make the most out of it. Take photos of the scene, note the other vehicle’s make and model, get the cop’s name and badge number, and jot down the address of the accident. If other people witnessed the mishap, get their contact details too. Compile as much information as you can because you might need it for future reference.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel completely fine, you should still head to the nearest hospital or clinic. Adrenaline may be blocking the pain, so even if you don’t feel anything, you can still be wounded. You might have sustained internal injuries that only a professional doctor can detect. And if you have been hurt in any way, it’s best to have it diagnosed and treated as early as possible. When it comes to your health and well-being, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
In urgent situations, the primary emotion is usually panic because you don’t know what to do. But with enough research, you can handle tense and complicated complications with ease. You only have to remember not to let your emotions get the best of you.