Whether you experienced a serious car accident or a mere fender bender, it’s common to get flustered at the scene. And that’s why you must educate yourself before these events occur, especially before you submit an insurance claim for the accident.
Take a look at the below steps to make the claims process easier if you find yourself in an accident.
Who was involved in the Car Accident? Check Yourself and Passengers for Injuries
First, check yourself and any passengers for injuries immediately following the accident. If anyone is seriously injured, seek medical assistance immediately.
Additionally, follow up with a doctor as soon as possible, even if it seems like you or your passengers are uninjured. For instance, car accidents often cause hidden injuries that you may not notice immediately after the incident.
Get to Safety and Call 911
Next, make sure to move out of the way of oncoming traffic and call 911. Many states legally require you to contact the police after a car accident no matter what. For example, even if victims experience no injuries or damage to vehicles many states legally require you to contact the police.
The dispatcher will send help to the scene. And once law enforcement arrives, they will begin an investigation into the accident.
Exchange Information at the Scene of the Car Accident
In most states, drivers must exchange information after an accident. This includes name, address, insurance company, and policy number. If the other driver refuses to cooperate or provide this information, take down their license plate number, and contact the police.
Make sure to exchange this information:
- Driver’s full name and contact information
- Vehicle make, model, and VIN number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number and License plate number
- Location, date, and time of the accident
Document Car Accident Details for the Insurance Claim
Document everything following an accident. First, identify the officers on the scene and request a copy of the car accident report. Your insurance company may ask for this when submitting an insurance claim, for instance. Next, capture photos of any injuries, damage to the car, and the scene of the accident. If witnesses are present, collect their contact information. Witnesses can often provide statements if needed for part of the claim.
Additionally, keep track of all expenses related to the car accident. This could include medical bills, car repairs, and rental car costs. This information will help with filing an insurance claim.
Submit an Insurance Claim
First, call your insurance company before leaving the scene of the accident. Your insurance company will need to investigate the accident in comparison to your policy.
Some drivers make the mistake of taking a cash payout from the other driver directly. This can have serious consequences down the road when you try to file an insurance claim. Your policy may not cover damages if you take money from the other driver.
Car Accident Don’ts
Moreover, Dooley Noted wants to prepare you with what comes next. While following the steps above, keep these Car Accident Don’ts in mind while at the scene of the accident:
- Avoid conversations about who is responsible for the car accident.
- Do not discuss the amount of damages at the scene of the car accident.
- Hold off on information until a police officer arrives.
- Do not give out your social security number.
Why Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer in Texas?
Following the steps above will help keep the process fair and ensure equal treatment of all parties. However, the process likely requires assistance.
If you have been injured or involved in a car accident, Dooley Noted will fight for your rights.
At Dooley Noted, Personal Injury Lawyers in Texas represent people in many types of personal injury cases. We commit to meeting the needs of our clients in personal injury cases by finding the best possible outcome in their situation.
Let Dooley Noted review your case for free. From being blindsided by an accident to suffering at the hands of another person’s negligence, Dooley Noted Personal Injury Attorney ensures you get your life back on track.