Being involved in a car accident is often a chaotic and traumatic experience. Even small accidents have the potential to be very frightening. However, it is important to stay calm during this time so that you can act to the best of your abilities. This allows you to follow the necessary steps after an accident that can allow the best outcome of an unfavorable situation. This may also help to have better odds at a successful future claim.

After an accident, it is beneficial for an individual to follow the steps below:

Call the Police

It is crucial to contact law enforcement after an accident happens, even if the other party involved tells you otherwise. Police can ensure the safety of the scene and direct any other traffic on the road around the wreckage. They can also draft an official police report, take statements from witnesses, and conduct chemical tests. All of these can be beneficial for you when it comes time to process a claim with your insurance company, should you wish to do so.

Do Not Apologize

It is often an instant reaction to apologize to another party for being involved in an accident. However, it is important to try and avoid this impulse. This is because an apology at the scene of an accident can sometimes be seen as an admission of fault for the collision. When you do not apologize, you are avoiding discussing liability with the other individual involved in the accident. Instead, it is important to be polite to them and call the necessary emergency services.

Photo or Video of the Wreck

As long as the scene is safe, it is important to take pictures and/or video of the scene of the accident. This can capture the outcome of the incident, including broken glass, deployed airbags, skid marks, and bloodstains that occurred. You may also benefit from recording the weather and road conditions. This can help for a future claim or lawsuit.

Record Important Details

You should not assume that the police will document all the necessary information regarding the accident. It is important to be proactive and record these details on your own. This can be helpful in filing a claim. This information can also include the names of witnesses, their phone numbers, and the registration information of any vehicle involved in the accident.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

The most important thing to do after an accident is to seek immediate medical attention. Even if you feel fine afterward, it is possible to sustain an injury without realizing it at the moment. Sometimes, you may even experience later symptoms. Even if you receive treatment on the scene from an emergency responder, you should still see a doctor for an official diagnosis. This doctor will document your injuries, including where and what time they happened. This information can also be beneficial in filing a future claim.

Contact our Firm

If you or someone you know was involved in a personal injury accident and wishes to speak with a skilled attorney, contact Delaware Injury Law Firm, Weinroth & Miller, P.C. today.

Delaware Injury Law Firm is comprised of an experienced team of attorneys focusing on legal matters of personal injury, workers’ compensation, Social Security Disability, product liability, and wrongful death in Delaware. If you require an effective attorney to guide you through these difficult legal matters, contact Delaware Injury Law Firm today to schedule a free case evaluation.