It’s hard to know exactly what to do in the confusion after a car accident. A quick exchange of insurance information won’t take care of every accident. There are some vital steps to remember from the moments immediately after the crash. Follow the steps below to assure you have the best chance of pursuing compensation if needed.
What Is the First Thing to Do After a Car Accident?
No matter what, your first steps after a car accident should be to check if anyone is injured and to get everyone to a safe area. Your next step should be to call 911, even if the accident seems minor or there are no injuries. If anyone was injured, be sure to let 911 know you need an ambulance to the accident scene.
While you’re waiting for the police to arrive, you can get photo and video evidence of the scene. But do not apologize or say anything that sounds like you’re admitting guilt. Even if you think you’re at fault, the whole story may not be immediately apparent. An car accident lawyer can help you determine who is at fault in the accident and if you can pursue compensation for your injuries.
What Do You Say to Police After a Car Accident?
Once the police arrive, stay calm and stick to the facts. Tell the police officer exactly what you remember happening and any important details. Let them know if any witnesses could let them know what they saw as well.
A police report will be a vital piece of evidence if you have to file an insurance claim. Be sure to get the police officer’s name and badge number, as well as the police report number. You’ll want to get a copy of the accident report and review it for any mistakes.
What Details Do You Need to Exchange After a Car Accident?
It’s essential to exchange contact information on the accident scene. Even if the other driver offers to pay cash to avoid getting insurance companies involved, you should exchange information anyway. It may not seem like there are any damages or injuries now, but you never know what may come up in the days and weeks following the accident.
You should get the following information from the other drivers to be sure you can have any necessary damages covered:
- Personal contact information
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Type, color, and model of the vehicle
- Location of the accident
What Do I Need To Report After a Car Accident?
If the police don’t come to the accident scene, you should still file your own police report. This can help solidify how the accident happened early in the process. You’ll collect all of your information on the accident and report it to the police department.
If you file a claim for the accident, you will also likely have to report the accident to the other driver’s insurance company and possibly your own insurance provider. However, you have to be careful about what you say to the insurance adjusters. A car accident attorney can help you with this process and ensure you’re providing all the needed information.
Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer in Oklahoma City, OK Today
If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s best to have a car accident attorney on your side to handle the aftermath of the accident. It’s difficult to handle the car insurance claim process, especially if you’re suffering from serious injuries.
Contact the car accident lawyers at Ryan Bisher Ryan Simons today to discuss your car insurance claim and how we can help you get the compensation you deserve.
We are Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons, a legal firm that, for decades, has been fighting for the rights of hardworking Oklahoma residents. Our mission is to hold the powerful accountable.
