A car accident can be a frightening and overwhelming event. That’s why we’ve assembled this guide so you can think fast and know just how to react should you ever be involved in a vehicle collision.

Stop your Vehicle

The first thing you should do immediately after a collision with another vehicle is put on your hazard lights and pull your vehicle over to the side of the road so you can accurately assess the damage to your vehicle. Even a minor accident can cause damage that can affect the mechanics of your vehicle. Without proper inspection, there is no way to determine if your vehicle is still safe to drive or not.

Check for Safety

Once you have moved your vehicle to the side of the road, it’s important to make sure you and any other drivers involved are safe and out of harm’s way. Take the time to make sure everyone is a safe distance from the roadway to prevent any other accidents from occurring. If possible, you’ll also want to set up a couple road flares to alert oncoming traffic of the accident, especially if it is dark outside. Make sure all vehicles involved have their hazard lights on to assist in alerting other drivers as well.

Call the Police

Even if it is a minor accident, make sure you report it to the police. A police officer can help mediate and document the situation and can also contact medical personnel if anyone involved is injured. The police report is often vital when filing an insurance claim.

Document the Accident

The next step is to make sure that the accident is well documented. The police will certainly help as they file their report, but if you have a camera or cell phone, take photos to document the damage and the scene of the incident as well. This will come in handy should you need legal representation and for insurance purposes as well. Be sure that, as the police are asking you questions, you are providing accurate answers and no speculations. Having an accurate record of what occurred is incredibly important.

Exchange Driver Information

This is often done during the police report but it is important to share your insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. That way the insurance companies can be notified and a claim be filed.

Seek Medical Attention

If you have not already, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately or within the first 24 hours of the accident. That way, there is a record of your condition as a result of the accident. Many potential injuries, such as concussions, are internal and need to be addressed immediately.

Gather Information

Make sure you keep an organized folder of all of the information regarding the accident. This file should include medical records, the accident police report, any insurance documents, and repair receipts. This information will be vital when working with your attorney on your legal claim.

Contact Alexander Law Group, PLC

It’s critical that you contact an accident attorney to discuss your case right away. At Alexander Law Group, PLC, your consultation is free. Having a legal team on your side can help you determine if your accident was a result of negligence and how to proceed with legal action.

Our team understands how difficult it can be to navigate your legal options alone. You will be able to meet with a qualified personal injury attorney, go over the specific facts related to your case, and ask any questions that you might have. Bring any pertinent forms, police reports, medical records, and medical bills with you to the consultation appointment. These will help guide your lawyer when proceeding with your case. Our team will listen to you and work our hardest to help you navigate your claim and get the compensation you are entitled to. We can easily be reached via telephone at (804) 271-1969.