It is more than just unfortunate to get involved in a car accident. Did you know that 1.35 million people from all over the world die in road accidents each year? With that kind of number, there is no denying that road accidents are a global problem. There are several reasons why this happens. It can be due to distracted driving, poor road conditions, and many more.
No matter how careful you are, you will always be at risk of a road accident whenever you are on the road. If ever you find yourself involved in a car accident, it is important to act immediately, especially if you have suffered injuries. This will help you ensure that you get the legal support as well as the compensation you deserve. Check out our guide below to know more about the steps you should take after a car accident.
Contact The Local Authorities
It might be difficult to identify who is at fault when a car accident happens. To avoid confusion and conflict, it is best to call the police right away. Law enforcement will verify and facilitate the exchange of information among all parties involved, including eyewitnesses. The police will also eventually create an incident report of the accident, which is very important in filing a compensation claim with insurance companies or filing a lawsuit against the party who has caused the accident. It is also important at this point to never admit fault until you have legal representation to avoid further problems in your insurance or legal compensation claim later on. Remember to be careful about what you say to the other party involved as well as the investigating police as everything you say will be included in the police report.
Seek Emergency Medical Care
Car crashes can lead to minor bruises, lacerations, sprains, or other serious damage to your tissues. If ever you find yourself involved in a car accident, make sure to seek medical attention to avoid any underlying health condition to worsen. This is particularly true if you have sustained injuries in your neck or spine. Although you may feel just a small tinge of pain in these areas, you might encounter serious health issues including paralysis if left untreated. Apart from ensuring your overall health and well-being, getting checked will also protect your legal right to compensation. Your medical report can also act as strong evidence in claiming your right for compensation.
Compiling Evidence
It is also a good measure to collect significant documents, photographs, and other pieces of evidence after an accident. As mentioned earlier, your medical report and the police report of the accident are one of the most important documents you should obtain a copy of. Taking photographs of the accident is also recommended. You can also take a video or audio recording of the statements of the key witnesses around the scene of the accident. Make sure to get the contact information of all the relevant parties involved.
If you were in a hit and run accident where the driver did not stop, you should at least try to take note of the licensed plate number. Collecting proof of the accident is highly necessary as this will help support your claim in case your insurance company or the other party will contest your claim.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Aside from the local authorities, it is also important for you to report the accident to your insurance company. This way, your insurance claim will be processed early on. It is also critical to be fully aware of your insurance policy coverage so that you will be able to confirm the actual compensation you deserve. Typically, insurance companies may deny your compensation claim, that is why it is important not only to contact them within 24 hours but also to preserve the evidence you need to secure your claim.
Seek Legal Assistance
Lastly, you should also consider getting a lawyer for legal advice regardless of whether you are at fault or the victim. As previously mentioned, insurance companies may contest your compensation claim. With a lawyer, you will ensure that you will get the right compensation or a fair settlement. Hiring an attorney is also necessary should you find yourself facing a lawsuit.
Car accidents are unfortunately a fairly common occurrence in any part of the world. That is why you need to always practice road safety measures. However, it is also important to be fully aware of the necessary steps you need to take in case you find yourself in a car accident.
