Even for the most careful drivers, getting in a car accident is inevitable. In the United States there are over 6 million accidents every year, injuring nearly 3 million people per year on average. While most of these accidents only result in property damage, it’s still important to be prepared in the event of a collision.
This 6-step guide provides you with some necessary action items when you are involved in a car accident:
Step 1: Move yourself to safety
The first thing you should do after being involved in a car accident is move yourself, your car, and your passengers to safety. If possible, pull off to the side of the road. Once you have moved away from incoming traffic you should set your car to park, turn the engine off, and turn your hazards on. If you have cones and flares available, set them up around the perimeter of your vehicle to ensure visibility.
Step 2: Call for help
If someone is seriously injured, immediately call 9-1-1 and seek medical attention.
If no one is seriously injured, call the police. Once at the scene, the police officer will gather information, take accident photos, and perform field sobriety tests if they feel substances may have played a part in the auto collision.
Step 3: Gather personal information
This one is a no-brainer. Don’t let the other driver leave the scene without identifying them. Here are some important pieces of information to gather before leaving the scene:
Driver’s full name
Driver’s phone number
Make, year & model of driver’s car
Driver’s license # & license plate #
Insurance company & policy #
If possible, gather the full names and phone numbers of any neutral witnesses at the scene of the car accident who can recall any part of the collision or the other driver’s actions.
Be careful not to say anything that could suggest fault on your behalf. It is best to not answer any questions at the scene.
Step 4: Take photos and videos
First things first: Take a video of yourself at the scene explaining your side of the story. It’s important to gather all of those important details about the accident while it is still fresh in your mind. Take note of what happened, the cross streets or intersection closest to you, and the direction each driver was going. Your insurance agent will likely ask you these questions once you report the accident.
Take photos of the scene of the accident and remember to photograph any broken glass, damage to either vehicle, fallen car parts, tire markings, or other debris nearby. Most importantly, make sure to document all damage done to the vehicles involved.
Step 5: Notify your auto insurance company
If you feel you are not at fault, have been injured, or if accident damages exceed what you are able to cover, it is important to contact your insurance agency. Once in contact, you will be prompted to provide accident details as well as information of all parties involved.
If you are not comfortable answering questions or if you feel like you are being faulted, let them know your lawyer will be in contact.
Step 6: Contact your Oakland car accident lawyer
The law firm of Kerley Schaffer can help if you’ve been in a car accident. We make sure auto insurance companies don’t rip you off. If you’ve been injured, we work hard to make sure you get the medical care and compensation you deserve.
Click here for a list of 12 items that could save your life in the event of an emergency.