Getting into a vehicle accident is incredibly stressful. Regardless of the circumstances, the scene of a wreck is always chaotic. If you let the stress get to you, though, you may not be able to recover compensation for the damages. In order to file a successful personal injury claim, you must keep your cool and take certain steps as soon as possible. Here are five of the most important. 

5 Critical Steps to Take Following an Auto Accident 

1. Pull Over

Pull off the road and turn on your hazard lights, if possible. If you have any warning triangles, cones, or flares, put them out to prevent subsequent collisions. Do not leave the scene, even if the accident seems minor, and do not chase after any motorists who do. 

2. Call the Police 

Police will direct traffic away from the area, draft an official report, facilitate the cleanup, and ensure those who need medical care get it. If any motorists involved were violating the law prior to the wreck, they may try to convince you to keep law enforcement out of it. Do not agree to handle the situation among yourselves because there’s no way to determine how serious the collision actually was without conducting a full investigation. 

3. Record the Scene 

After police arrive and direct passing motorists away from the scene, photograph the wreckage from all angles. Make sure to capture both small and large details, including skid marks, broken glass, weather conditions, and the flow of nearby traffic. Now is also the time to exchange information with the other drivers involved. At this point, you should gather the names and phone numbers of any eyewitnesses as well.  

4. Get Medical Care

Your health should be the priority following a vehicle accident. If you do not need emergency care, it’s still wise to visit a doctor after leaving the area. This will ensure you receive treatment for all impact injuries, including those that may not be exhibiting any symptoms. It will also demonstrate a commitment to mitigating damages, which is critical for filing a successful personal injury claim. 

5. Call an Attorney

Once your health is no longer in jeopardy, call a lawyer. Do not talk to anyone—including the insurance adjuster—until after securing legal counsel. Depending on the circumstances, your financial security may be at stake, and a single misstep at any stage of the proceedings could threaten the entire case.

If you were involved in a vehicle accident through no fault of your own, the strategic team at Arnold & Stafford can help determine the best way to commence the claims process. They have three offices in Georgia—in Hinesville, Ludowici, and Richmond Hill—and they’re also licensed to practice in Florida, California, Hawaii, and Iowa. Since their legal team has more than 60 years of combined experience, you can be sure you’re in good hands, whether you need to make a will or fight for child custody. To discuss your vehicle accident with someone on their team, fill out the form online or call (912) 369-4529.