WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE IN A CAR ACCIDENT
(CLICK HERE TO PRINT A .PDF VERSION OF THIS PAGE YOU CAN KEEP IN YOUR GLOVE COMPARTMENT IN THE EVENT OF AN AUTO ACCIDENT)1. Check to see if you or any passengers with you are injured. Call 911 for medical help if anyone needs medical attention. If anyone is unconscious, it is best not to move them unless absolutely necessary as moving them could make their injuries worse. If you must move the person, make sure to keep their head and neck supported the entire time.
2. Get out of the way of all traffic. If your car is inoperable, turn on your warning lights or open your hood to warn other drivers in the area. Your safety is most important.
3. Call the police if the accident involves serious damage, injury or death.
4. Obtain information from the other driver, including:
- Name:
- Address:
- City:
- Telephone:
- Insurance Company:
- Policy Number:
5. Obtain police officers information:
- Name:
- Badge Number:
- City:
6. Write down accident information:
- Date:
- Time:
- Other car description:
- Make:
- Model:
- Year:
- Color:
- State:
- License Plate Number:
7. Take pictures of the accident scene. Keep a disposable camera in your glove compartment. If there are no other cameras available, use your cell phone camera. Having photographic proof will help your insurance company determine how much you should be compensated for the damages to your car, and may also assist your case in court, if needed.
8. Schedule an appointment with your doctor. Sometimes injuries appear themselves after an accident takes place. Many people who are injured do not realize it right after an accident, so it is always wise to see your doctor to make sure you are ok.
9. Before speaking to the insurance company, consult an attorney. Many times the insurance companies will try to settle for less than you deserve, especially when injuries are involved. Get a FREE telephone or office consultation from Former Insurance Company Attorney Michael Pines to discuss your legal rights.
10. Accident Diagram
Michael Pines
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