If you have been involved in a car accident, it is best to take steps to get the right treatment and to ensure your safety. Getting hurt in an auto accident is very stressful, and if you are suffering from a traumatic brain injury, there are a number of things you can do to keep yourself safe. You should get prompt medical care, document the accident, file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, and avoid talking about the accident with other drivers.
Document the accident
Documenting an accident is an important part of the safety process. Not only does it provide proof for your claim, but it also shows how the accident happened.
The first thing to do after an accident is to file a police report. This will help the police determine the cause of the crash and who was at fault. If there were any passengers in the other vehicle, make sure to record their names and addresses.
Take pictures of the vehicles and the damage they have received. You should take photographs from several angles and from all sides. You should also document license plates. These photos can be shared with your insurer.
Take photos of any leaking fluids, broken glass, and the other cars. The location of the car accident should also be documented. This includes the roadway, traffic signs, landmarks, and other objects.
Avoid discussing fault with other drivers
One of the worst things you can do after a car accident is discuss fault with other drivers. Whether you’re the injured party or a driver involved in the crash, your statements can damage your claim. Here are a few ways to avoid the pitfalls.
The first and most obvious thing to do is to remain calm. This might seem like a no-brainer, but people tend to get into the wrong mindset after a car accident. This can lead to saying things with far more impact than they realize. The other party might be attempting to intimidate you into apologizing for the accident.
Can I sue after a car accident if I was not hurt? Yes.
The second step is to get the facts. You’ll be asked many questions about the accident. Getting the facts early will help you to determine who was at fault and how much. If you’re not sure, it’s a good idea to consult with a lawyer.
Get prompt medical attention
Prompt medical attention after a car accident can save lives. Getting prompt care after an accident ensures that the proper diagnosis and treatment are given to the injured victim.
The first 72 hours after a crash are the best time to treat most injuries. This allows for faster recovery and lessens the risk of long-term complications. If you don’t have a doctor appointment, a walk-in clinic or urgent care center can be a quick and easy way to get treatment.
Even if you don’t think you’ve been injured, you should visit a physician to have an exam. Your doctor can order diagnostic tests to determine if you have a serious injury. He or she can also put together a treatment plan to help you recover.
File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company
If you have been involved in a car accident and you believe the other driver is at fault, you should file a claim with their insurance company. If you have a collision or liability policy, you can do this directly with your own insurer, but you may have to go through your insurer if you have no insurance.
You should contact the other driver’s insurance company as soon as possible after the crash. They can investigate the wreck, and they will also send an adjuster to determine who is at fault. If they are not able to make a quick payment, you can take your case to court.
During an investigation, the insurance adjuster will use the information provided by you and the other driver to determine fault. They will also look at the facts of the wreck and any documentation to determine who is at fault. If you have a cell phone, you can snap pictures of the scene and license plates to support your insurance claim.
Avoid being hit by approaching vehicles
The best way to avoid being hit by an approaching vehicle is to park in a safe place. This is not an easy feat in today’s age of overly tight parking spaces. The smarter among us take advantage of free parking by having a friend or family member drop off their vehicle for the night. The key is to make sure the car is not damaged in the process. Having a seatbelt on is a must as is the presence of an emergency kit.
Having a solid insurance policy is another consideration. The most comprehensive plans usually include coverage for a slew of scenarios. These include accidents, collisions, theft, and fire. The insurer will also pay for damage to the driver’s property. For more serious matters such as a medical evacuation, the best bets may be to enlist the services of a competent paramedic.