What You Must Do Following a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide

According to the United States Department of Transportation, more than six million traffic and car accidents occur each year in the US alone, which includes motorcycle and truck accidents. Consequently, more than three million people will sustain an injury or fatality due to a collision.

If you want to ensure you know exactly how to act following a crash, read the below advice on what you must do following a car accident.

Stop the Vehicle Immediately

Never attempt to drive away from the scene of the crash, even if you did not cause an accident, you have not experienced any damage, or have only been involved in a minor collision.

It is a legal requirement to stop a car if you collide with another vehicle or object. In some US states, you are legally obliged to call 911 following a crash immediately.

Assess the Scene for Injuries and Damage

If possible, check if anyone at the scene requires immediate medical attention. If so, call an ambulance as soon as possible. You also should contact the police to file a legal accident report, even if you have been involved in a minor collision.

If you can, move your vehicle to a roadside to avoid causing traffic delays. However, it might be beneficial to wait until the police have arrived at the scene before you do so.

Limit Your Discussion of an Accident to Avoid Liability

Never admit fault or liability at the scene. Attempt to limit your conversation with the other party to ensure you don't accept any blame or say anything that could be used against you. Instead, only discuss the accident with the police, a medical professional, and an insurance representative.

Stick to the Facts When Talking to the Other Party

Whenever you do talk to the other party at the scene, focus on the facts as much as possible. For instance, you must ask for the names, addresses and phone numbers of everyone involved in an accident.

You also should make a note of their car's description and license plate number. Don't forget to ask for the driver's insurance information and to record their vehicle identification number, too.

Make a Personal Injury Claim for Financial Justice

Unfortunately, it is common for drivers and passengers to sustain a serious injury following a car accident. If so, consider making a car accident claim to receive financial justice for the debilitating accident.

After all, the injury could have impacted your mental and physical health, livelihood, and family. To ensure your claim is successful, get in touch with an experienced Austin car accident lawyer.

Contact Your Insurance Company ASAP

Following a collision, you must contact your insurance company as soon as possible to notify them of a car accident. It might also be beneficial to call your insurer from the scene, as a police offer could potentially provide the company with more accurate information regarding the collision and damage to the vehicles.