Auto accidents happen hundreds of times per day. When you get in an accident, there are a few things you need to do to ensure that you are making the best of a bad situation. I deal with many of these issues throughout my practice. Here are some helpful tips from State Farm in the event that you are in an accident.
Be prepared
- have a pen and paper in your car, along with your insurance information, photo identification and a copy of the title to the vehicle.
- It also helps to a card with any relevant medical information for you and your family.
Immediately after an accident
- Take a deep breath and stay calm.
- Check for injuries; call an ambulance when in doubt.
- If accident is minor, move cars to a safe place, out of traffic.
- Turn on your vehicle’s hazard lights for safety.
- Call the police, even if the accident is minor.
- Notify your insurance agent immediately.
Other important tips
- Do not sign any document unless it’s for the police or your insurance agent.
- Make immediate notes about the accident, including specific damages to all vehicles involved, witness information, injuries, statements you hear or make, etc.
- If the name on an auto registration is different than the driver, jot down the relationship.
- Be polite, but don’t tell anyone the accident was your fault, even if you think it was.
- State only the facts, and limit your discussion of the accident to the police and your insurance agent.
- If possible, don’t leave the accident scene before the police and other drivers do.
Lastly, if you are injured be sure to consult with an attorney before signing any documents, making any statements or speaking with anyone about the accident. Make sure your rights are protected by seeing an attorney.
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