No one hopes to find themselves involved in car accidents. Yet, they occur daily. The good news is that only a small percentage of traffic collisions lead to fatalities.
Nonetheless, many accidents lead to injuries, and some lead to chronic conditions that ail individuals for the rest of their lives.
In 2023, drivers must procure insurance policies that cover damages caused by collisions. The coverage pays for vehicle repairs and medical bills, especially if they caused the accident.
After a collision, involved drivers must take several steps. For example, they must notify the local authorities, including highway patrol.
The road to recovery after a vehicle accident can be fraught with legal hurdles. An accident lawyer Miami provides much-needed support, helping victims to understand their legal rights and the intricacies of their case. This legal expert takes on the responsibility of negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing the client’s interests in court.
Notifying the authorities allows them to control traffic and avoid additional collisions. It also helps the drivers obtain an official report acknowledging the incident.
Then, drivers must obtain medical help for themselves and their passengers.
Remember that contacting a legal professional immediately after a collision is essential since there are cases they will not take. Here’s what you need to know if an attorney won’t take your case.
The following are seven things to do after a car accident.
1. Pull off the Main Road
Even though vehicle accidents occur daily, it’s essential to avoid creating additional collisions after the initial one takes place.
Therefore, drivers must pull off the main road.
Attempt to pull to the side, away from traffic. Successfully pulling off the main road depends on several factors.
Accidents on highways in the middle of rush hour face many challenges. Thus, use safe judgment.
2. Check on Passengers
Next, check on the vehicle’s passengers. Determine if anyone in the car requires immediate medical attention.
The severity of the crash usually determines the level of medical attention needed. However, injuries do not become apparent right away in some cases.
Adrenaline can kick in and mask pain. Therefore, passengers and drivers might not realize they have suffered whiplash, internal bleeding, or severe cuts and bruises.
Thus, take caution when examining passengers and yourself after collisions.
3. Contact the Local Authorities
Now, contact the local authorities and report the incident. In many cases, calling 911 is the best option. Then, the representatives will contact highway patrol, police and fire departments, and ambulances as necessary.
4. Exchange Insurance Information with Other Vehicle Drivers
As drivers await for the local authorities to arrive, start exchanging insurance information with each other.
Ideally, all drivers will remain on the scene and have adequate insurance coverage. However, sometimes drivers have no insurance or not enough coverage.
In the worst-case scenario, drivers will flee the scene.
Therefore, step to a safe place and ask the driver for their insurance information. The insurance company will need it during the claims process.
5. Exchange Contact Information with Other Vehicle Drivers
In addition, exchange contact information with other vehicle drivers involved in the accident. If the case reaches the courts, the insurance company will need it, and so will any legal professionals hired to represent the plaintiff.
Most personal injury cases settle out of court, and most personal injury cases come from vehicle collisions.
6. Take Pictures of the Scene
While drivers wait for the authorities to arrive, take pictures of the scene, even if drivers moved their vehicles off the main road.
The goal is to document the damage so that insurance companies can see its extent. Insurance companies require that policyholders obtain three repair or replacement quotes before paying out claims.
Therefore, drivers must document the damage to ensure that professionals help restore the car to its previous condition without paying for the repairs out of pocket.
7. Obtain an Accident Report
After the local authorities document the incident, obtain a copy of the accident report. The report proves that the collision occurred; the insurance company and legal representation professionals will need it
Official accident reports provide an unbiased perspective of the incident.
8. Seek Medical Attention
After the local authorities document the accident, drivers and passengers can receive medical attention at nearby hospital emergency rooms.
In some cases, ambulances will start dispensing medical attention on-site. The urgent need for medical care depends on the severity of the injuries.
Nonetheless, seek medical attention, even if you do not feel pain or discomfort immediately
9. Hire Legal Representation
Vehicle accidents can become traumatic experiences for some individuals. Collisions stop individuals from carrying out daily activities and drive their attention in different directions.
After an accident, it’s a good idea to hire legal representation. Personal injury lawyers can deal with insurance companies, and the defendant’s representatives as plaintiffs work to overcome injuries, make car repairs, and maintain their abilities to work and sustain their incomes.
Conclusion
After a vehicle accident, it’s essential to ensure that everyone in the car who needs medical attention receives it. Then, talk with the drivers of other vehicles involved in the collision. Swift action afterward ensures that individuals obtain build cases and receive award damages to cover medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs.
