What to Do After a Car Accident

January 5, 2017

The scene in the wake of even a minor car accident can be chaotic, to put it mildly. There may be injuries that require immediate medical attention. The area can become clogged with stopped traffic, police, and ambulances. There may be fights and arguments that break out. And tensions will be running high for all the parties involved. Instead of getting swept up in the confusion, this is what to do after a car accident:

Get the Help You Need

In the immediate wake of a car accident, you will want to check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Call an ambulance if necessary, and contact the police no matter what. Many people who are unsure of what to do in case of an accident mistakenly assume that the police will appear automatically.

Secure the Area

If the traffic accident was relatively minor, move any vehicles involved to the side of the road so that you don’t impede traffic. Be sure to put on the hazard lights, and if you have and need them, lay down some road flares or traffic cones. If you have doubts about what to do after a car accident, remember that one of your first priorities is preventing an additional accident.

Keep a Record

As soon as you are able, start collecting information relevant to the accident. Write down everything you can remember from before, during, and after the accident. Take photos of the vehicles involved and the surrounding area. Be sure to collect important details like contact information, license plate numbers, and the names of the police. This is what to do after a car accident whether or not it was your fault.

Agree to Nothing

You should not sign any document or make any binding agreements unless they are supplied to you by the police or by your own insurance company. You should also be polite, but not admit guilt to anyone or discuss anything except the bare details of the accident.