Would it surprise you to learn that more than five million car accidents occurred in 2020? Of those accidents, more than 35,000 were fatal.
Unfortunately, car accidents seem to be part of life. You either see them happen, pass them on the road or experience them. Therefore, these are some steps you should take after you get into a car accident.
Take a breath
Just before the accident, your adrenaline surged through your body and you prepared for the impact. Therefore, take a minute to get your bearings before you do anything else.
Check for injuries
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If you feel pain, avoid moving until emergency personnel can check you out. Direct anyone in your vehicle to do the same. If you and your passengers are fine and you can do so, move out of traffic.
Contact law enforcement
Call 911 and ask for law enforcement. Ask for EMTs if you received injuries. Stay on the scene so you can speak with the police and file and accident report. Then, get a copy as soon as you can.
Document the scene
Photograph every vehicle involved in the accident, the accident scene, debris, witnesses to the accident and anything else you find notable. Get contact information from the witnesses. Write down what happened from your perspective.
Get medical help
Even if you do not feel any pain or see any injuries, you should seek medical attention. Your adrenaline may hide serious problems, and your insurance claim may depend on you acting proactively and getting checked out.
Although you can never fully prepare for a car accident, you can learn the steps to take if one occurs.