The unexpectedness of a car accident can make it hard to think straight and easy to skip necessary steps for your claim. In order to help your claim move forward smoothly, here is a checklist of the initial steps to take after your car accident.
Call the Police
If you are in an accident, always call the police so that you have documentation of the accident. Even if there are no apparent injuries or the wreck seems like a small one, you may need a police report to file an insurance claim. The officer can help assess the situation and collect vital information from the parties involved in the crash and any potential witnesses. They can send for a tow truck if any of the vehicles need one and they can send for an ambulance if someone is badly hurt.
Swap Information
It can be difficult to approach the person who caused your accident and injuries, but it is a necessary step to obtain their information after an accident. Get the other driver’s information, including who they are and what insurance company they use. Take a picture of their driver’s license and insurance card if possible, to verify you wrote down the correct information.
Take Pictures
Taking pictures after the accident can provide evidence for your case. Before moving your vehicle from the scene, safely take pictures showing the accident scene, including any tire marks, traffic signs or lights, and any signs of possible negligence.
Take pictures of your property damage, but also the damage to the other vehicle and the location of the damage. If you or any passengers in your vehicle suffered visible injuries, make sure to take pictures of those injuries.
Talk to Witnesses
If there are any witnesses to your accident, talk to them and see if they will provide a statement. Make sure to get the witness’ name and contact information, their written statement, and have them sign and date the statement. Witnesses can provide essential information if there is a dispute as to how the accident happened.
Seek Medical Treatment
If you suffered any injuries from the crash, you should get medical treatment as soon as possible. Sometimes, you may not feel any injuries immediately after, but it is important to see a doctor to properly diagnose and treat your conditions. The medical records and bills from your injuries are a vital piece of evidence for your claims.
Call a Lawyer
While not everyone needs to see a lawyer after a car accident, it can immensely help you case and situation. If you have questions, set up a free consultation and learn how you can benefit from their legal services. An attorney can help you file a claim with your insurance company or the at fault driver’s insurance company.
Notify Your Insurance
Notify your insurance company about the accident, even if it is not your fault. The other driver’s insurance company may reach out to them, and it is better if your insurance company hears about the accident from you first.
If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, make sure you know your rights and do not provide a statement about your injuries or the accident without speaking to a lawyer first.
Call or text 601-790-0175 to set up your free consultation
Initial consultations with Burch Law Firm are free. Whether you have a personal injury claim, a workers’ compensation claim, or even a wills and estate issue in Mississippi, we are here to help you. If your legal needs are not something we can handle, we will refer you to someone who can.