Share:

Regardless of whether you sustain an injury or are involved in a simple fender bender, a car accident can leave you feeling disoriented and rattled. It’s difficult to know exactly what to do in the moments following the incident. To help ensure you cover your bases for insurance and personal injury claim purposes, follow the steps outlined below.

What to Do After a Car Accident

1. Call the Authorities

Even if the collision is a minor one, the police need to be called so an accident report can be filed. You’ll need a copy of this report for an insurance claim as well as to serve as a written record of the incident if you decide to file a personal injury lawsuit.

2. Stay Put

It’s never a good idea to leave the scene of a car accident. Even if you believe you’re not at fault, you could face a hit-and-run charge if you take off too early. Remain at the scene until a law enforcement officer arrives.

3. Document the Scene

car accidentTake pictures to serve as evidence for your insurance claim and personal injury lawsuit. Make sure you document the damage to all cars involved as well as any injuries you may have sustained.

It’s also wise to interview witnesses and exchange contact information in case you need them to testify to what they saw. If you’re able, write down any other information you may want to remember.

4. Seek Medical Treatment

If you have visible injuries when the police arrive, they’ll likely call an ambulance to the scene. However, even if you don’t appear to be wounded or feel hurt in any way, you still need to be examined by a doctor. Some injuries, such as whiplash and concussion, take time to start exhibiting symptoms. You’ll also need a doctor’s diagnosis and other medical paperwork for a personal injury claim.

 

If you’ve been injured in a car accident and are considering filing a personal injury claim, Gregory S. Young Co., L.P.A., will help. For more than 60 years, this firm has been representing clients throughout Ohio and Kentucky, providing expert legal services on all types of personal injury cases, including car wrecks, slip-and-fall accidents, and medical malpractice. They have 13 office locations, including three in Cincinnati. Visit their website to learn more about the seasoned team of attorneys and call (513) 721-1077 to schedule a consultation today.

tracking