What To Do About A Car Accident

By Author: Tom B
Total Articles: 7
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Dealing With a Car Accident

According to the U.S Census Bureau there have been over 10 million car accidents in the U.S. each year starting in 2004 and ending in 2008. That's over 50 million car crashes in just a five year span. With numbers like that it is safe to assume that everyone will have to deal with a car accident at some point in their lives. Everyone should know how to react to a car accident to make sure that the crash isn't anymore stressful and difficult than it needs to be.

Be Calm

This is the most important thing you need to do in the event of a car crash. In some cases this is easier said than done. Car accidents can be very traumatic and being calm may be the last thing on your mind. But be assured, staying calm is very important so that the accident can be documented correctly and all necessary information is obtained.

Obtain Information

After a crash, if you are not seriously hurt, you will want to get as much information as you can. You should write down the name, address and phone number of the other people involved in the crash. You should also write down ...
... the name of their insurance company, the number of their policy, their drivers license number and their license plate number. If the name of the driver is different than the name on the insurance policy of the vehicle you should write down the driver's name and relationship to the person whose name is on the policy. Write down the location of the accident and how it occurred. When writing how the accident occurred, or when explaining to police what happened you should be polite and tell them the facts, but don't admit fault for the crash even if you think you might be at fault. This may benefit you if legal action is taken later by the other party. You may also write down a description of the cars involved including the year, make, model and color.

You should also list any damaged or missing items resulting from the crash. Examples of this might be your cell phone, items in a wallet or a purse, glasses, or anything else you might keep in your car. You should also write down how you feel physically. document anything out of the ordinary as even small aches can become a more serious issue. If possible write down any relevant medical information for others involved in the crash.

In accidents more serious than a fender bender you will need to call the police and have them come to the scene of the crash. When speaking to police ask about the traffic accident report. When police are involved in the more serious crashes traffic accident reports are required to be filed. Even if you accident is minor you might want to file an accident report with the state. Insurance companies use these to file claims and if you've filed an accident report it can help to speed up the process of your insurance company. Car accident reports are public record so write down the names and badge numbers of the police assisting you, know where your accident report will filed, and be sure that you have a number to contact the precinct where the report will be filed.

Take Photos

If you have a camera you will want to take as many pictures of the accident as you can. You will want pictures of the damage to each vehicle and you will want to try to make the pictures show how the accident occurred. You should write down the contact information of anyone who saw the crash so that they can be contacted if necessary later on. You will also want to take pictures of your injuries and write the date they were taken on them. Keep taking pictures of your injuries while they heal and make sure to date them. These will be good to have when dealing with insurance companies.

After the Accident

Documentation is just as important after leaving the scene of an accident. You should keep a record of any medical consults, and medical bills you receive. You should also keep track of any work or school you miss due to the crash. Time you take off for medical treatment would be included as well. You should keep records of car repair estimates. Your insurance company might give a low estimate. If you think the estimate isn't right then go get one from a certified mechanic. Make sure to keep all the paperwork and bills related to repairing your vehicle. In addition you should keep track of any money you pay relating to injuries from your accident. This includes heating pads, bandages, child-care bills, rental cars, taxis, or even cancellation of a trip you had planned to take.

Contacting a Lawyer

Having a personal injury attorney is a smart choice after an accident. Before signing any forms related to an accident you should get advice from a lawyer, especially if you do not understand what you are signing or if you aren't comfortable signing something. Initial offers from insurance companies may be lower than you feel you deserve and you might think that your insurance company isn't providing you with what it should be. And if an accident is serious and you are taken to the hospital all of the documentation will be up to your insurance company and you won't have any of the information for yourself. It is times like these when having a personal injury attorney is crucial. A personal injury attorney will communicate with your insurance company and make sure that you get the amount of money you're entitled to. A good personal attorney will investigate your accident and even evaluate your injuries to make sure that they get you the best settlement that you can get. Car crashes are very stressful and settling them can be a complicated process. Having a personal injury attorney will bring you peace of mind and help to reduce the stress of dealing with insurance providers after an auto accident.