Prepared for the unexpected? 5 steps to take after a car accident

No one expects their day to turn into a nightmare. You could be driving along minding your own business with the kids sat happily in the back of your car and before you know it, you’ve been involved in a car accident. You can expect a rollercoaster of emotions, from sadness and fear to anger and despair. But do you know what other steps to take when you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault? One of the first things you should do, after the initial shock, is search for a car accident lawyer, wherever you are based. But in the immediate aftermath of a crash, would you know the first steps to take?

Here I’ve gathered 5 actions you should take after a car accident

Stop and switch off your engine

If you fail to stop at the scene of an accident – even if it isn’t your fault, then you are breaking the law and could be in a lot of trouble. So, be smart and pull over as soon as it is safe to do so. Always try to park the vehicle out of the way of oncoming traffic, put on your hazard lights and switch off your engine. Putting on your hazards alerts other drivers to the fact that there is a problem and that you have acknowledged there has been a crash.

Check for injuries

If you have passengers, check them for injuries and don’t neglect yourself! If everyone is able to do so, leave the vehicle and move everyone a safe distance away from the crash and roadside. If you need medical assistance then call an ambulance and the police.

Contact  with a lawyer

Contacting an accident lawyer promptly after a car accident is crucial for navigating the legal complexities associated with personal injury claims. Laws governing such cases vary significantly from state to state, making it essential to consult with a legal professional who is well-versed in the specific jurisdiction where the accident occurred. For instance, if the accident happened in Toledo, it’s imperative to contact a Toledo car accident lawyer who possesses localized knowledge of the applicable laws and regulations. By engaging a local accident lawyer, you enhance your chances of building a strong case and securing the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, property damage, and other losses resulting from the accident. Their expertise can guide you through the entire legal process, providing peace of mind during a challenging tim

Remain calm

Tempers flare after a crash, whether you were at fault or not! The other party may try to pin blame on you which means you’re likely to become equally distressed and angry. Try to remain calm throughout the situation, avoid using terms such as “sorry”, or apologising – sometimes it’s just in our nature to say sorry even if we’re not at fault! Swap details with the other driver and make plans to contact the police and report the accident within 24 hours (if you haven’t already done so).

Don’t forget witnesses

If the accident wasn’t your fault then you’re going to want to gather as much evidence as possible. However, at this early stage, it’s just your word against theirs. If there were any witnesses present, get their details too so you or your local attorney, such as this Tampa car accident lawyer, can contact them at a later stage.

Gather other information

It can be difficult to remember all of these points, especially if you’re a little shaken after the crash. However, gathering as much information as possible will help strengthen your personal injury claim and help any police investigation. Take note of the following:

• The time and date of the crash
• The positioning of the vehicles after the incident (a sketch or quick picture is ideal)
• The weather conditions
• The car makes/models and registrations of all vehicles involved
• Description of injuries sustained and damage to vehicles – again, photographs taken on your phone are ideal.