Car accidents may be devastating and may change your life completely. However, if you know what steps to take after a car accident may help to handle the situation in a better way. You may be unable to handle insurance companies, medical providers, and other authorities.
If you hire a Car Accident Lawyer, it may help to protect your rights and they will assist you on how to proceed with the accident claim. Some of the things that you must follow immediately after the car crash are as follows:
- Ensure everyone’s safety around you
One of the top priorities that you must follow after a car collision is the safety of everyone at the accident scene. If you or someone is injured you must call 911 for immediate help. You can also seek prompt medical attention even if you have minor or no injuries.
According to the laws in New York, accidents that result in death, property damage, or injuries exceeding $1,000 must be reported to the police authorities within a timeline of 10 days. You must move to a safe place and park your vehicle on the side of the road to prevent others from getting injured due to your vehicle.
- Document the incident
It is important to document everything that happened at the accident scene. It will help you at a later stage. You must capture pictures of the accident scene as well if possible. The documentation must include parties involved in the accident, eyewitnesses’ contact information, injuries, police officials’ numbers, and other relevant details that may help to make your case strong in the future.
3. Stay calm
The accident victim after getting hurt may lose their calm and begin to blame the other party for the accident. They may even get involved in fights with the other party. This may weaken your case as they may record it and use it against you in the future. Therefore, you must stay calm and handle the situation in the best way possible. Do not give any recorded statement to the police authorities or sign any documents.
4. Contact your insurance company.
Whether you are at fault or not in the accident, you must notify your insurance company about the collision. This is because it may help you in making the claim process smooth and easier. Some insurance policies may require immediate reporting of the accident and any delay may jeopardize your insurance coverage.
You must be honest with your insurance provider and inform them of everything after taking advice from your lawyer or law firm such as Gregory Spektor & Associates, P.C. You must give the date, time, location, and other contact information of other parties involved in the accident.