After a car accident, emotions may be high and injuries severe, making it difficult to proceed with a calm and level head. However, maintaining a level of calm is exactly what you need to do. The personal injury attorneys at the Law Office of Thomas L Brayton III, located in Waterbury, CT, have a list of steps they advise clients to take immediately following a car accident. By following the recommended steps, each client can improve their odds of obtaining a beneficial outcome to their personal injury or accident claim.

7 Steps To Take Immediately After A Car Accident

1. Call The Police

After an accident in which there was severe property damage, physical injury, or even death, it’s important to call the police and wait for them to arrive. You should never leave the scene of an accident. 

2. Exchange Information

Get the name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance information of the driver of the other vehicle. If there were passengers in the other car, try to obtain their information as well.

3. Talk To Witnesses

If you choose to file a personal injury or accident claim, witness testimony may be key in the outcome. An outside observer can provide an objective and detailed account of what happened and how. If there was anyone around the scene of the accident following the crash, get their name, number, and a brief account of what they saw.

4. Inform Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company and tell them you’ve been involved in a car accident. Give them a complete and honest account of what happened. Do not embellish the story or try to place blame on the other driver if you were the at-fault party. If the insurance company finds out you lied to them about anything, you may not only be denied coverage, but you could also be in serious legal trouble.

5. Take Pictures

Take photos of everything, from the damage done to your vehicle to your own personal injuries. Photographs will give the insurance adjuster a good idea of your damages and will help them determine a fair amount of compensation.

6. Seek Medical Attention & Keep Track Of It

Even if your injuries are minor, request a complete medical examination, including tests on your neck, head, and back. Many car accident injuries are latent, so it will be helpful to have records from directly after the accident if a condition does arise. Make note of any doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, and other medical professionals you receive treatment from. If you miss work to see a medical provider, make note of that as well. A careful account of your medical reports and bills will help you prove medical expenses later.

7. Consult With A Lawyer

If anyone was injured in the car accident, it may be best to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer can help you maximize your recovery if you’re injured or defend yourself if you’re at fault.

When you work with the Law Office of Thomas L. Brayton III, you will be taken care of by a dedicated and compassionate personal injury attorney. For a free case evaluation and an honest assessment of your claim’s worth, call (203) 591-8689, or visit the firm’s website for more information.