5 Things To Remember If You’re In An Accident

Driving is a pastime that millions of people all around the world have used for decades to take a personal time out. You probably enjoy a nice peaceful drive around town when you’re stressed, and you’re not alone.

However, traveling on the roads today places you at risk of experiencing an accident. If you’re out on a relaxing adventure, the last thing you want to handle is an accident. It helps to already be familiar with the process, so you can remain calm when the situation turns sour.

Check everyone’s well-being first

The very first thing you should do after experiencing a car accident is to concern yourself with the well-being of everyone involved. Check for injuries, and go from there. If everyone is okay, you should then decide whether or not it’s best for everyone to evacuate the vehicle.

Get your vehicle to a safe spot

If the accident leaves your vehicle able to be driven, it’s okay to move your car out of the way of traffic. You’re not breaking any laws if you move your car to the side of the road.

It’s safer to get out of the road then to leave the accident as is. Don’t let the myths of rule-breaking dissuade you from doing what you need to do for your safety.

Call the local authorities

Call the police. No matter how simple the accident may have been, it’s your legal obligation to notify the local authorities. Someone else has likely already called the local police, but it’s safer to make sure the call is made.

There’s something called “bystander apathy,” and it could happen to you. Bystander apathy is when there are a bunch of people who see something going wrong and don’t call authorities, because they assume someone else will do it.

Document the scene thoroughly

While you’re still at the scene of the accident, it’s wise to take as many pictures as possible. Gather the names and contact information of all the people involved in the wreck, and store it for future reference.

You may need to hire a personal injury lawyer in the future, so save everything. If you go to the hospital, save the records. You’ll need to be able to show proof of all the backlash of the accident to receive compensation.

Contact your insurance agent

As soon as you make it home safely, you need to make a phone call to your auto insurance agent. Notify your car insurance provider, so the case can get underway.

You’ll find compensation much faster if you make the call quickly. Depending on the provisions of your insurance, you may be able to get extra help from your insurance agency.