According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 6.1 million car accidents happen annually in the United States. Most of them result in minor injuries, but some can lead to serious or fatal ones.
So, understanding how to handle these types of accidents can protect your rights is crucial.
Here are some steps to help alleviate stress after a crash and streamline the potential claims process.
Stay at the Scene
Never leave the scene of an auto accident without reporting it, no matter how minor. Leaving the scene of an accident is a severe offence that can result in license suspension, fines, or even jail time.
According to Georgia Code section 40-6-270, you must stop after any collision that causes property damage or injury (or death).
In addition to coming to a halt after the crash, you should ensure you’re in a secure area that protects other drivers from harm. This could imply:
- Shifting to the road’s side
- Turning on your warning lights
- When getting out of your car, use a flashlight or, if it’s dark, the light on your phone.
- If your car is not working, leave it where it is and make your way.
Stay Calm
Traffic accidents are startling events. But you don’t want your feelings to exacerbate an already tense scenario.
Staying calm can help you evaluate the accident scene and understand what happened. Breathe deeply for a moment and get your bearings.
Check for Injuries
Check the people in your car, starting with yourself, for any injuries. Check on the second vehicle’s driver and passengers to see if it is safe to do so. Inform the authorities if you find any injuries.
Ensure Safety
After an accident, the police should be able to observe the vehicles at their final resting point.
Only move the cars out of the way when it’s essential for everyone’s safety and to stop more collisions.
Always remember to be courteous and calm when conversing with other drivers. This can help maintain decorum and prevent a relapse of emotions.
Collect Information
Find the other drivers in the collision and get their insurance information, names, contact details, and driver’s license numbers.
If another driver appears angry, dangerous, or incapacitated, it is good to seek information from a responding officer.
Speak with Witnesses
Engage with any witnesses at the scene and obtain their contact information to enhance your case through eyewitness testimony.
Take Pictures
If it is safe, take wide-angle pictures of the accident scene from several angles and locations. Things to take pictures of consist of:
- All involved damaged vehicles.
- The cars’ license plates
- Injuries
- The street or crosswalk where the collision happened
- Roadway skid markings
- At the collision scene, there are stop signs or traffic lights.
Contact an attorney
Local law enforcement may assess the scene and ask for a statement when a car accident occurs. It’s crucial to remain calm and not admit fault or apologize.
Sharing your story with an auto accident attorney can help determine appropriate actions or statements.
What to Do After your recovery from Serious Injuries in a car accident?
Sometimes, car accidents can cause long-term disabilities. These disabilities prevent some people from working full-time. If you experience such challenges after your recovery, consider consulting with a social security disability attorney. They can help you understand your eligibility and navigate the benefits application process.