You’ve Been in an Accident, Now What?

You were driving one and day and suddenly your car is slammed by another vehicle. You can’t tell if you are hurt or just dizzy. Your vehicle is stopped and you’re sitting in your car. You’ve been in an accident, now what?

• Do a self check. Before getting out of your vehicle, assess whether you can feel and move your hands and feet. If you have shooting pain or numbness in any of your extremities, stay where you are unless your vehicle is on fire.
• Next, assess where you landed. Did you hit a guard rail? Is your car still in the street? Did you hit an electricity pole? Certain circumstances may make it safer to be in your car than out of your car until emergency personnel arrive. If you leave your vehicle, make sure you are away from the road. Do not stand in the street staring at the damage. You can check on the other driver, but avoid saying too much about the accident itself, and do not say “I’m sorry” if you did not cause the accident.
• Check on the passengers. Is everyone conscious? Does anyone have any wounds that need immediate attention? If you have children in the car, do not panic. They are probably already upset and they need you to be as strong as you can.
• Call the police. Even if there’s only minor damage to the vehicles and the other driver offers you cash for repairs, you need to call the cops. You may feel only a small strain today but your pain will probably be worse tomorrow and you may have injuries that you cannot recognize with post-accident adrenaline. A police report is generally required before you make any insurance claims so be sure that the police are called to make the report.
• If you feel pain, go to the doctor. Don’t try to suck it up. You may have a traumatic brain injury that you do not realize and you should be evaluated by medical professionals.
• If you are seriously injured, hire experienced accident lawyers. Don’t rely on the insurance company to provide you a fair settlement out of the goodness of their hearts. Those injured due to negligent drivers need experienced attorneys to help fight for a just settlement. If you have been injured and need help, contact us.