Car accident attorneys have a lot of experience in what not to do after a car accident, as they are the ones who usually have to work around the insurance company gatekeepers and first responders. Car accidents are extremely traumatic, even the less-than-severe ones because the human “flight or fight” impulse kicks in. This is why good people flee accident scenes or get into roadside fights. However, there are things that should be done after an accident that will not only make it easier to deal with insurance or even the courts, but also keep you safe from harm.
Stay in your vehicle until first responders arrive. Now, obviously if the car is in flames you can’t do this, but in general it’s the wisest course. People don’t always feel their injuries immediately and will want to leave the vehicle due to that flight instinct. Many, many people in accidents have been hit and killed when leaving their vehicle. Still others have made injuries worse by moving around. Wait for the first responders and exit the vehicle on their advice.
See a physician immediately. You may not believe you are injured, but when the adrenaline leaves your system you will. As every automobile accident attorney can tell you, it never hurts to see a doctor. It can only help. Not only will it keep you from further injury or diagnose the severity of one, but it also keeps everyone’s insurance company honest. Having a documented care visit is important when settling claims later.
If possible, call a car accident attorney. Your insurance company is not your friend. They are the friend of their stockholders. Having a second opinion on what your claim should be will help you when negotiating with your insurance company. It will also be important should there be a court case where you are obligated to appear. Attorneys keep everything on an even keel.
If you have been in an accident, be calm, wait for the police, see a doctor, and if necessary, call an attorney who specializes in car accidents.
