8 important steps to take after a car accident

A car accident has the potential to alter your life in a number of ways and the things that you do and say after an accident can affect your ability to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.

In the immediate wake of a traffic accident, it’s important to understand how to protect your rights and best interests. If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, it’s wise to take the following actions:

• Check yourself for injuries — This is priority number one, as you want to gain a clear understanding of your injuries and any first aid you need to administer until help arrives.
• Check on the well-being of your passengers — Just as you may have suffered an injury in the accident, the same holds true for any involved passengers. Check on them as quickly as possible.
• Move your vehicle to safety — This is not always possible, especially if your vehicle is severely damaged. However, if you can, move out of traffic.
• Call 911 — Both police and an ambulance should arrive at the scene in the near future.
• Exchange information — It may not be possible in the event of a serious injury, but you should exchange information with the other driver (or drivers) if you’re able to do so.
• Take notes and photos — Anything you can do to document the accident would be in your best interest. This can include taking photos of the accident scene and your injuries.
• See your doctor — Some injuries may take days or even weeks to notice. A doctor will be able to diagnose and treat injuries to improve your prognosis.
• Contact your insurance company — Don’t wait too long to contact your company, provide information on the accident and answer any questions they have. You don’t want to say too much until you review your policy and understand your rights.

To learn more about your legal rights after a traffic accident, contact a personal injury attorney.