What Should I Do Before I Leave the Scene of A Car Crash?
A car crash can cause injuries that take a few days to clear up and chronic ones. It can also lead to a slightly dented or totaled vehicle. While some collisions are more painful and destructive than others, there is follow-up that should take place no matter the extent of the accident.
If you become a victim of a crash, you should be sure to evaluate the scene before leaving. Here are three steps you can take:
Pull over to a safe spot
Instead of just getting out of your car immediately after you crash, make sure you aren’t in the middle of a busy street. Pull over to the shoulder, if you can, and be mindful that you aren’t opening your door and exiting your vehicle when there is a surge of oncoming traffic. You should do all you can to prevent another accident from happening by creating a minimal distraction on the road.
Check in, make calls
When and if you can safely exit your vehicle, it’ll be courteous to check in with the other party. Check to see if anyone is suffering injuries and call for emergency help. Calling for ambulance when there are serious injuries present can help individuals get aid in a timely manner. While having the police come to the scene will help create a written record of the event. Calling 9-1-1 is also the lawful thing to do when the crash results in injuries, death or property damage over $500.
Exchange and gather information
In addition to checking for injuries, you’ll want to exchange contact and insurance information with the other party. Speaking with the other party will make it possible for you to file for damages or create an insurance claim. Documenting any important details of the scene, including the location and the property damage can also help during the claims process. You can do this by taking notes or photos.
Taking the opportunity to gather information about the scene of the accident can help you plead your case for compensation. Just be sure to not admit fault at any point of the follow-up phase.