An auto accident can be very stressful and injuries can be immediate or occur shortly thereafter. The following is a quick guide of what to do after an accident where you are not at fault:
- Call 911 and ask for help. The 911 operator will most likely contact the police and send medical help as well.
- If feasible, move the automobiles involved in the accident from of the lanes of travel and away from oncoming traffic so there are no subsequent accidents.
- Stay at the scene until the officers advise you otherwise.
- Provide the information requested by the police. Ask for a copy of the police report and note the officer’s badge number and name.
- ALWAYS collect the information below from the other parties involved in the automobile accident:
- Names, addresses and telephone numbers
- Insurance company name and policy numbers
- The involved person’s driver’s license numbers
- All pertinent information from eyewitnesses who were at the scene during the accident
- Take videos or pictures of the vehicles involved in the accident. Documenting the damage to the automobiles can assist at a later time to show how the accident occurred.
- Seek medical attention immediately; seek a hospital, urgent care or your primary care doctor to evaluate your injuries as you may have injuries that you do not even know you have suffered.
- While insurance companies may contact you to ask for a recorded statement or wanting you to fill out paperwork, DO NOT REPLY OR SIGN ANYTHING, until AFTER speaking with a Steinger, Greene & Feiner attorney to know your options. A lawyer can help you navigate your way through dealing with the insurance companies.
Timing is important and essential, so make sure to take quick action and know your rights by getting help immediately.