Car accidents are an unfortunate occurrence that can affect anyone. Fortunately, you can get compensated if another party is responsible for the accident. However, what you do immediately after the accident affects the value of your compensation. Here is what to do.
Determine Whether Anyone Is Hurt
Before you approach the accident scene, ensure you can safely do so. If there is ongoing traffic or fire risk, move to a safe location and contact emergency services. Once the area is safe, you can proceed to assess the condition of those involved.
Carefully observe each person involved in the accident and look for any visible signs of injury, such as bleeding, obvious fractures, or indications of pain. Ensure you approach individuals cautiously, as they may be disoriented or in shock. Communicate calmly and reassure them that help is on the way.
In addition to visual cues, pay attention to any verbal indications of injury. Ask each person if they are experiencing any pain or discomfort. Encourage open communication, but avoid moving anyone unless necessary. That’s because any movement may exacerbate injuries, particularly if there is a suspected neck or spinal injury.
Seek medical assistance, even if there are no apparent injuries, as certain injuries may not manifest immediately. A healthcare professional can conduct a comprehensive evaluation to identify any underlying issues that might require attention.
Contact the Police
Ensure that the appropriate authorities are notified about the incident and can respond promptly to the scene. The police can handle accidents and provide necessary assistance, such as directing traffic, securing the area, and ensuring the safety of those involved.
Police will document the accident, gather evidence, and create an official report, which can be vital for insurance claims and legal purposes. When contacting the police, provide accurate and detailed information about the accident.
Include the location of the incident, the number of vehicles involved, any injuries sustained, and any immediate hazards present. Stay calm and provide the dispatcher with clear information to help them assess the severity of the situation and dispatch the appropriate resources.
When you involve the police, you establish an objective record of the accident. This can help determine liability and protect your rights in case of disputes or legal proceedings. The police report will include information about the parties involved, witness statements, and a description of the accident scene.
Make an Accurate Record
Making an accurate record after a car accident helps ensure that the details of the incident are properly documented, which can be important for insurance claims and legal proceedings. An accurate record provides an objective account of what transpired, helping to establish liability and determine the appropriate course of action.
Use a smartphone or camera to take pictures of the accident scene from different angles. Include images of the vehicles involved, any property damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and other relevant factors.
You should also obtain the contact details, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information of all parties involved. It is also helpful to note down the names and contact information of witnesses at the scene.
Seek Medical Attention
A doctor’s examination after a car accident helps to rule out any serious or life-threatening conditions that may not be immediately apparent. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or whiplash-associated disorders, may not manifest symptoms until hours or days later. A medical professional can conduct the necessary tests, such as X-rays or scans, to detect such injuries early on.
A doctor can comprehensively assess your injuries and recommend appropriate treatment. The doctor can evaluate the extent of any visible injuries, such as cuts, bruises, or broken bones, and develop a treatment plan accordingly.
Once you have gotten treatment, contact Frenkel & Frenkel. We will help you to get the compensation you deserve.
