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What do I do after a car accident?

As we know, an accident can happen to any person at any time. Although we may take all necessary precautions to avoid an accident, we cannot vouch for everyone else on the roads, or account for bad weather or unforeseen hazards on the roads. When an accident does occur though, it is important to know what to do. To protect yourself, your health, and the health and safety of others involved in the crash.

Immediately following a car crash, you may not think rationally or make the wisest of decisions. But knowing in advance what should be done may help guide you if you do find yourself in such a situation. Here are a few important steps you should take. Some may seem obvious, others not so, but all should be followed to assure the best for you and everyone else involved in the crash.

Everyone’s health and well-being should be the first and most immediate concern. If no one is injured, call the police. If there are injuries or hazards, call 9-1-1 to have medical help. You should then exchange contact information with everyone involves. This would include their names, contact information, addresses and insurance information. If there are witnesses at the scene, talk to them and collect their contact information as well.

If you can do so without putting yourself in more danger, take pictures of the scene. These could be used by police while filing a report or can be used by your insurance company. Also contact your insurance company to explain what happened. You should be as truthful as possible; if it found that you lied to them, you may be denied coverage or lose your account with them. By following simple guidelines following a car crash, you could save yourself from many headaches down the road.

Source: findlaw.com, “After a Car Accident: First Steps,” Accessed April 17, 2017

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