When a car accident happens, it can be very frightening no matter how big or small it may be. These situations can be stressful and chaotic, which can send some people into a panic. However, one of the most important things you can do during this time is to stay calm. This lets you focus on the situation at hand and deal with it to the best of your ability.
After an accident, you should abide by the following steps to ensure the best outcome of a difficult situation:
Call the Police
Law enforcement can be very helpful after an accident happens. This is why it is important to contact them, even if the other party involved in the accident tells you otherwise. With police at the scene, they can direct traffic around the wreckage to ensure your safety as well as others passing by on the road. In addition to this, they can also draft an official police report, take statements from witnesses, and conduct chemical tests. This is crucial information to have in the event that you wish to process a claim with your insurance company.
Do Not Apologize
After an accident, it is often an impulse to apologize to the other driver immediately. However, this should try and be avoided. This is because it can sometimes be seen as an admission of fault for causing the accident. Instead of doing so, you should simply be polite and contact the necessary emergency services that can assist all parties involved. This allows you to avoid the discussion of liability altogether.
Photo or Video of the Wreck
If the scene of the accident is safe, it can be beneficial to take pictures and videos of the scene. This allows you to have evidence of any broken glass, deployed airbags, skid marks, and bloodstains that occurred because of the incident. Recording the weather and road conditions can also prove to be helpful for a future claim or potential lawsuit.
Record Important Details
Before leaving the scene of an accident, it is crucial to gather any necessary information from the parties involved. Just because the police officer is there, it should not be assumed that this will be done for you. Taking down every important detail can help you file a claim. This information can include the names of witnesses, their phone numbers, and the registration information of any vehicle involved in the accident.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
One of the most important things that should be done after an accident is to seek immediate medical attention. Even if you feel fine right after an accident, it is possible to not realize you have an injury or experience symptoms later on. Emergency responders can conduct examinations on the scene, however, it is important to see a doctor for an official diagnosis. Doing so will document your injuries, including why they happened, where they were sustained, and what time they happened. This information can be used in filing a future claim.
Contact our Firm
Hausman & Pendzick effectively represents victims of neglect in Westchester County and across the state of New York. If you need a knowledgeable and skilled personal injury attorney to help you recover compensation after an accident, contact Hausman & Pendzick today.