It’s an important responsibility for any driver to understand what should be done after a car accident. In Maryland alone there are over 100,000 accidents every year, so whether you’ve recently experienced an accident or you just want to be better prepared, here’s what you should (and perhaps more importantly shouldn’t) do after a car accident.
Safety First
Stop the car in a safe area if possible, turn off the engine, check on everyone in the car, and be aware of any injuries that may have occurred. Don’t exit the car until you’re completely sure that it’s safe to do so.
Call 911
Inform the police after a car accident as soon as possible. An officer will create a report of the incident and interview all drivers involved in the crash. This is especially crucial if another driver may have been intoxicated. If another driver tries to convince you not to contact the police (or insurance companies), this is all the more reason to do so in order to protect yourself.
Collect Information
Take note of the date, time, and location of the accident. Always be sure to collect the name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, insurance company, policy number, and any other identifying information of all drivers involved. Also collect the make, model, year, license plate number, and registered owner of the cars involved. If there are any witnesses, collect their information. It is important to write down, either in your phone or on paper, as much information as possible, including what other drivers say. Having written information from the time of the accident can help you significantly in a future case.
Take Pictures
Pictures are not only more descriptive than words; they’re more trustworthy. You or others in your car should take as many pictures as possible of the accident from all different angles, including pictures of the cars involved and any damages taken place. It’s also helpful to take pictures of driver’s licenses, insurance information, vehicle registrations, and all involved in the accident.
Listen More Than You Speak
Even if you aren’t at fault, it’s important to remember your Miranda Rights (“Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law”). Only state facts if needed and avoid any speculation. If others say anything incriminating, such as apologizing for being at fault, always make note of it. Again, writing information down is much more reliable than trying to remember it. Never speak to the insurance company of another driver, and when reporting the accident to your insurance company, it’s in your best interest to speak with an attorney before providing a recorded statement.
Help With Your Car Accident Claim
After a car accident, you deserve a skilled attorney who will get you the compensation that you deserve. Click here or call (410) 986-0088 to consult with an experienced attorney at the Law Office of Elizabeth A. Lawrence today.