With the high rate of car accidents throughout the country, it is likely that you will find yourself involved in a collision at some point. The more you drive, the more you increase your chance of an accident but you can be prepared. In the aftermath of a wreck, many people realize that they don’t know what to do next. Having thought that they would never be in this position they are unsure what to ask for or who to call. Below are some of the steps to take upon being involved in a car accident.
Be prepared: Don’t wait until it happens. Start planning ahead in case it does. Make sure that you know what kind of coverage you have, including if it applies to an uninsured or underinsured motorist. Keep items in your car that you may need: a camera, flashlight, cones and a notepad.
Check for injuries: Make sure that you are ok. If you are injured in any way (or if any of your passengers or the driver or passengers in the other vehicle are hurt), make sure an ambulance is called and don’t do anything that could cause further injury. Wait for the ambulance and go go to the hospital and get a complete evaluation. Do not take any chances. Medical attention comes first. You can worry about the rest after you are treated.
Safety First: If you do not have injuries, try to get to a place that is safe. Move your car to the side of the road so that you are out of the way of traffic. If you are unable to do this, stay in your car, buckle up, turn on hazard lights and wait until emergency responders arrive.
Information to get: It is important that you exchange information next. This includes personal contact information (phone numbers, names and address) of the driver and passengers, insurance information (policy number, provider, company number, etc), driver’s license number and license plate number.
Take Pictures: A picture really does last longer and if you are unable to remember exactly what took place, having pictures can be valuable. The insurance companies will also likely want to see them so take pictures of the scene of the accident, the damage to both cars, the driver’s license of the other driver and their license plate number.
Contact Cranston & Edwards: If you have suffered injuries in the accident, contact a Morgantown personal injury lawyer at Cranston & Edwards, PLLC immediately for a free initial consultation. Dont’ wait. Speak with us before contacting any insurance company.