Getting into a car accident is a stressful and sometimes traumatic experience. Knowing how to handle the situation effectively is the most important thing you can do in the event of such circumstances. To prepare yourself should you ever get into a car accident, here are six things to know to best handle the situation.
1. You Should Not Voice Your Input
Until you have spoken with your car accident attorney, do not give your input on anything related to the accident to insurance or those at the scene investigating. What you say can be used against you in court, making it more challenging for you to get compensation if you are entitled to it. Don’t voice your input on what happened, on casualty claims, or anything else related to the accident. If someone asks you a question, just say that you are refraining from commenting until you’ve contacted your lawyer.
2. You Should Stay Calm At The Scene
After a common car accident occurs, people can become belligerent and act out after something significant and traumatic. While feeling emotionally overwhelmed is natural in these cases, how you behave can influence the outcome. Don’t put yourself in a position to get arrested. Stay calm, exchange contact information, and avoid issues. If the other person is angry or upset, remain calm and don’t get invested.
3. You Must Know The Games
One of the reasons you don’t want to tell insurance about specifics before talking with your lawyer is because car insurance companies often look for a way out of paying for damages. Even when responsible, many companies will jump through hoops and look for reasons to decline responsibility. This is why it is so important to get legal help. Your lawyer will know how to analyze these games so you can get closer to getting rightfully compensated.
4. You Must Get To A Hospital
After an accident, getting checked out at the hospital is essential. Sometimes an accident can feel so unexpected that those in the accident don’t even feel pain from the impact until later. To avoid these sudden complications, get to a hospital as soon as possible. Even if you think you are fine, getting checked out by a doctor is essential. Take care of yourself by handling things at the scene quickly so you can move on and get the care you need.
5. You Should Call The Police
Call the police as soon as you regain your bearings. Addressing the matter head-on is the most effective way to go about these situations, and it places you in a position of having taken responsibility, which looks good for your position. Likewise, if any witnesses were around at the time of the accident, ask to exchange information. After you’ve spoken with your lawyer about the following steps, you may need their input later.
6. Phone Your Loved Ones
After you have addressed the essentials, phone your loved ones to explain what has happened. Once you are all set, let your loved ones know what happened when you are in a private space. You may feel compelled to call your loved ones as soon as the accident occurs, but you should call the police and for medical help before contacting anyone else.
The Bottom Line
Safety first! When you get into a car accident, it can be startling. You may not know what to do and feel stuck in a state of shock. Consider the information in this article, so you’re prepared if the unexpected occurs. Take care of yourself and talk to your lawyer before disclosing accident-related information. Call for medical help immediately if you or others appear injured.
