If you are involved in an automobile accident, you may not know what to do in the wake of the crash. Even if you have been in a collision in the past, accident scenes are inherently chaotic, and it’s easy to forget what you should or shouldn’t be doing. Here are a few steps to take if you’re involved in an accident.

What to Do Following an Automobile Accident

1. Wait for Police

After an accident, it’s critical that you call the police and remain in the area until they arrive. Otherwise, you could face charges for fleeing the scene, which is a class B misdemeanor in the state of Indiana. 

2. Check on Others 

While waiting for officers to arrive, check on everyone who was involved. If you can, check for other drivers or passengers who sustained serious injuries, and let first responders know who needs immediate medical attention, including yourself.

3. Record the Scene

Once police have directed traffic safely away from the scene of the automobile accident, photograph the wreckage from all angles. This could be essential if you decide to file a personal injury claim later. Now is also the time to get the names and phone numbers of any eyewitnesses. 

4. Exchange Information 

Get the names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information of all of the other motorists involved. You should also get the names and badge numbers of the responding officers, so it’s easy to obtain a copy of the official police report later. 

5. Call a Lawyer 

The sooner you hire a lawyer to help sue the liable party, the stronger the claim will be. For example, your attorney will handle all of the correspondence with the insurance adjuster, so you do not have to worry about jeopardizing the case inadvertently. Your lawyer will also start gathering evidence right away, including proof that might be time sensitive, like surveillance recordings. 

If you were injured in an automobile accident in Indiana, turn to the Law Offices of Charles P. Dargo, PC. Based in DeMotte, Monticello, and Anderson, this firm represents clients throughout Jasper, Madison, and White counties. Whether you were hurt in a car crash or experienced medical malpractice, you can rely on their personal injury law team for expert guidance at every stage of the proceedings. They are proud to provide the hospitality of a small local firm with the experience and resources of a big city practice. To request a case review, fill out a form online or call (219) 345-3114.