Immediate Actions to Take if You’re Injured in a Car Wreck

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While you can’t say it happens to everyone, it’s a pretty good bet that you’ll one day be involved in a car wreck. And to be honest, it can be quite traumatic and overwhelming. Being aware of what should be done immediately after the wreck is important for several reasons. It ensures your safety and well-being, and it protects you legally.

Are You Injured? Check and See, Then Call for Help

The first priority after a car wreck is to assess your own condition and that of any passengers in your vehicle. If you or anyone else is injured in a car wreck, call 911 immediately to request an ambulance. Now is no time to be a hero, so even if the injuries seem minor, get a medical opinion anyway. Additionally, some injuries may not be clear immediately because of shock or a rush of adrenaline. Do NOT say, “I’m fine!”

Move to a Safe Location

Moving your car to a safe location is imperative to keep further accidents from occurring. Look for the shoulder of the road or a parking lot to park your car and wait for help. If the car is not drivable, be sure your hazard lights are on to warn other drivers. There could also be instances where it’s hazardous to move the car, so in cases like these, stay in the car with the seatbelt on until police or ambulances arrive.

Collect Contact Info

Once you’re in a safe location, swap information such as name, phone number, email, insurance company, and license plate info. If you happen to have gained any witnesses, ask for their contact info as well. Get out your phone and take pictures of all the cars or property damaged. Also, grab a shot of any visible injuries you or your passengers have sustained. This will help a great deal when you go to file an insurance claim or need legal representation.

Call 911

It may seem like a minor fender bender, but you still need to call the police for an accident report. This will be evidence in case the other party disputes the claim or if you end up going to court. Stick to facts and do not admit fault. Also, as polite as it is, don’t apologize for the accident. It could come back later to be used against you.

Seek Medical Help

Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s important to get medical attention as soon as possible after a car wreck. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, might not be evident to you. A thorough medical examination by a doctor can help identify any hidden injuries and ensure that you receive proper treatment.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Call or go online (or use your app) to contact your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Give them all of the details of the incident, including the information you gathered from the other driver and any witnesses. Be honest and accurate in your description of the events, but avoid admitting fault or discussing the extent of your injuries until you’ve consulted with a legal professional.

By following these immediate actions after a car wreck, you can prioritize your safety, gather essential evidence, and lay the groundwork for a successful insurance claim or legal case.