A car accident can be a frightening and chaotic event. In the moments following a crash, it’s easy to feel disoriented and unsure what to do. Taking the following steps immediately after a collision can protect your health and your rights.
1. Stop and check for injuries
As soon as you can, pull over to a safe place. Check yourself for injuries first, then check on any passengers. If anyone is hurt or trapped, do not move them unless there is a serious danger present. Call 911 immediately.
2. Move to a safe location
If the accident is minor and no one has serious injuries, move your vehicle off the road, which helps prevent further crashes and keeps you safe from oncoming traffic. If your car is unable to move, turn on your hazard lights.
3. Call the police
Even for a seemingly minor crash, contact law enforcement. In Indiana, you must report accidents that involve injury, death or property damage over $1,000. An officer’s report is an official record that provides a detailed account of the event.
4. Gather information
After the police arrive, exchange information with all drivers involved (and witnesses, if possible). Get driver names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers and insurance details.
5. Document the scene
Use your phone to take pictures of everything related to the accident. Take photos of all vehicles from different angles. Photograph the location, including street signs and traffic signals, as visual evidence can be valuable later.
6. Do not admit fault
What you say at the scene matters. Avoid apologizing or saying anything that could be seen as an admission of fault, even if you think you were to blame. Stick to the facts when speaking with police or other drivers.
7. See a doctor
Even if you do not feel hurt, see a doctor right away. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries might not show symptoms immediately. Prompt medical attention creates a record of your injuries for your claim.
8. File a report
Indiana law requires you to report the accident to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles within 10 days if the accident resulted in injury, death or property damage over $1,000. Failing to file a report can result in the suspension of your license.
9. Contact your insurance company
Report the accident to your own insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide them with the basic facts of the crash, but do not agree to a recorded statement or discuss fault. Remember that insurance companies want to pay as little as possible.
10. Talk to a car accident lawyer
You have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim, but contacting a skilled attorney promptly is crucial. Your lawyer can guide you through the process, handle all communication with insurance companies, gather evidence and fight for compensation.
