What
To Do If You're Injured in a Motor Vehicle
Accident
Anytime you are involved in
a motor vehicle accident, there are routine steps that might help
in order to ensure you are financially and legally protected,
regardless of who is at fault for the accident itself.
REMAIN AT THE SCENE OF THE ACCIDENT
Always immediately stop your vehicle and remain at the scene of
an accident after it occurs. Avoid leaving the scene for any
reason other than immediate medical emergencies. Staying at the
scene of an accident is required by law even if you are not at
fault.
CONTACT LOCAL POLICE
Contact your local police department to request an officer at the
scene of your accident. Ensure the other individuals who are also
involved in the accident stay near the scene at all times if
possible. Be sure to take a photo of the license plate of any
other vehicles involved in the accident if anyone decides to
leave the scene before the police arrive.
GIVE A REPORT
Before speaking to a police officer, collect your thoughts and
replay the accident in your mind to have a clear idea of your own
perspective. Once a police officer arrives, give a calm and
thorough report of the accident from your point of view. Provide
as many details as possible in a cohesive and structured manner
when making your report as your memory is most fresh at this
time.
PHOTO AND VIDEO EVIDENCE
Take photographic and video evidence of the scene of the
accident. Include photos of any vehicles involved as well as the
aftermath of the surroundings of the accident. Take close-ups as
well as photos or video of the vehicles from afar.
EXCHANGE INSURANCE INFORMATION
Exchange insurance information as quickly as possible with all
parties who were also involved in the accident, regardless of who
is at fault. This information is necessary if you currently have
insurance and plan on filing a claim yourself.
REPORT THE ACCIDENT TO YOUR INSURANCE
PROVIDER
Call your insurance provider to report the accident you were
involved in while you are still at the active scene of the
accident. Reporting your accident as soon as possible decreases
your chances of getting denied regarding the claim you file. Use
the insurance information you requested from other parties
involved in the accident when reporting the claim to a
professional service representative from your insurance company
itself.
FOLLOW UP WITH MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IF
NECESSARY
Even when you are not seriously injured in a motor vehicle
accident it is still advisable to follow up and seek medical
attention if necessary. Getting a routine checkup at a local
hospital after an impact accident is recommended to ensure there
is no internal bleeding or other risks that have yet to show
signs or symptoms.
Taking the necessary steps after an accident helps to prevent
headaches and potential legal woes in the future. While getting
in an accident is stressful enough in itself, ensuring you
protect yourself is a way to avoid any additional mental and
emotional stress over time due to the event.