What to do After Being Involved in a Car Accident

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AFTER BEING INVOLVED IN A MOTOR VEHICLE COLLISION, YOU SHOULD TAKE THE NEXT STEPS IMMEDIATELY:

  • FIRST, MAKE SURE YOU AND YOUR PASSENGERS ARE CONSCIOUS AND NO ONE HAS LIFE-THREATENING INJURIES.

    • If your vehicle is severely damaged, do not exit the vehicle or more the vehicle, turn off the vehicle, turn on your hazard lights, and immediately call 911.

    • If the vehicle is operable, move the vehicle out of traffic to a safe place, turn off the vehicle, turn on your hazard lights, and call police or 911.

    • Again, if you are injured or in immediate pain, do not exit the vehicle or move.

    • If you are able to move without pain after the collision, gather information and take pictures of the vehicles.

INFORMATION THAT SHOULD BE GATHERED:

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    • Vehicle descriptions (make, model, year)

    • Drivers and passengers names and contact information from both vechiles

    • Driver’s license numbers

    • License plate numbers

    • Insurance information (including company and policy number)

    • Eyewitness information: obtain names and contact information for any persons who witnessed the collision

    • Accident scene location and/or address

    • Police officer’s name and badge number when they come to the scene

    • Take photos of both vehicles and damage to each vehicle

* DO NOT sign any documents or speak with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.

Most importantly, contact a lawyer. A lawyer can ensure that you have taken all of the right steps, whether you are at fault or not.

Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended for use as legal advice and does not establish a client-attorney relationship.