Car accidents happen fast. One second, you’re driving along, and the next, everything changes. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious crash, knowing what to do next can make a huge difference.
A lot of people assume they can handle things on their own—swap insurance info, get their car fixed, and move on. But sometimes, it’s not that simple. If you’re injured or facing a tricky insurance situation, you might need a lawyer to protect your rights. Here’s exactly what to do after an accident and when calling a lawyer is the right move.
1. Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
Right after a crash, your first priority is safety. Take a deep breath, check yourself for injuries, and make sure your passengers are okay. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away.
If it’s safe, move your car out of traffic to avoid another accident. But if the crash is severe or you’re too injured to move, stay put and wait for help.
2. Call the Police
Even if the accident seems minor, always call the police. A police report can be crucial when dealing with insurance claims or legal issues later on.
When the officer arrives, they’ll document the scene and talk to both drivers. Stick to the facts—don’t admit fault, even if you think you might be responsible. Sometimes, what seems like your fault at the moment turns out to be more complicated.
3. Gather Evidence
While waiting for the police, collect as much information as possible. This will help with insurance claims and legal action if needed. Here’s what to get:
- The other driver’s name, contact info, and insurance details
- Photos of both cars, the accident scene, and any visible injuries
- Contact info for witnesses who saw what happened
The more details you have, the better. If you’re too injured to do this, ask someone nearby to help.
4. Get Medical Attention (Even If You Feel Fine)
After an accident, adrenaline can mask injuries. You might feel fine at first but wake up sore the next day. Some serious injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, don’t show symptoms right away.
That’s why it’s smart to see a doctor as soon as possible. Not only is this important for your health, but medical records can also be key evidence if you need to file a claim later.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company as soon as possible. Give them the basic details of the crash, but be careful about what you say. Avoid statements like “I wasn’t paying attention” or “I’m not really hurt” because they could be used against you later.
If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, don’t give a recorded statement or accept a quick settlement without legal advice. Their goal is to pay as little as possible, not to look out for you.
6. Know when to Call a Lawyer
Not every accident requires a lawyer, but there are times when having one can make all the difference. You should seriously consider legal help if:
- You were injured and need medical treatment
- The other driver was uninsured or underinsured
- The insurance company is delaying or denying your claim
- You’re being blamed for an accident that wasn’t your fault
- You’re facing high medical bills or lost wages
A Smithtown personal injury lawyer, or another relevant to your location, can help make sure you’re not left with the financial burden of an accident that wasn’t your fault. They can negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence, and even take your case to court if needed. The earlier you get legal advice, the better.
7. Keep Track of Everything
If you’re dealing with injuries or property damage, keep a record of everything related to the accident. This includes:
- Medical bills and doctor’s reports
- Car repair estimates and receipts
- A journal of your pain, recovery, and any missed work
This documentation can help prove the impact of the accident on your life, which is important if you need to seek compensation.
8. Be Careful About What You Say and Post Online
After a crash, be cautious about discussing the accident—especially online. Even a simple post like “I’m fine” can be used by insurance companies to downplay your injuries.
Also, don’t accept blame, even casually. Saying “I’m sorry” to the other driver might feel natural, but it could be interpreted as an admission of fault.
9. What If the Insurance Company Won’t Pay?
Insurance companies don’t always play fair. They might delay payments, offer low settlements, or even deny valid claims. If this happens, don’t give up—this is where having a lawyer can help.
An attorney knows how to deal with insurance tactics and can fight to get you what you deserve. If negotiations don’t work, they can take legal action to hold the responsible party accountable.
Final Thoughts
Car accidents are stressful, but knowing what to do can make the process easier. Always check for injuries, call the police, and gather as much evidence as possible. Even if you think you’re fine, see a doctor just to be safe.
If you’re struggling with medical bills, lost wages, or a difficult insurance company, don’t hesitate to get legal help. A personal injury lawyer can handle the hard part so you can focus on recovering.
Paul Dughi.com 