5 Things to Do After a Car Accident

Car accidents are stressful events, and many people are in shock afterward and are not sure of what to do. Following certain steps after a crash can help to protect your rights as an accident and injury victim. 

Being involved in a car accident can be scary, and in some cases, life-changing. While you and your family are trying to recover, you may also have to deal with complicated legal matters surrounding the accident. If you find yourself the victim of a car crash, consider the following five steps.

1. Safety Check then Call 911: First thing, check for any injuries to yourself, your passengers, or the other driver. Immediately contact your local authorities, and request medical assistance if necessary. Give the operator detailed information as to your location (i.e., landmarks, street signs, mile markers, etc.), and describe any suspected injuries. It is important for police to respond to the scene of an accident to file a report. Be sure to tell the police if the driver of the other vehicle was using a cell phone or seemed to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the accident occurred.
2. Protect the Scene: Try not to move too far away from the scene of the crash, even if it is a minor accident. If possible and safe, stop where the accident happened. If this isn’t possible and the car is still functional, move the vehicle to the side of the road close by to avoid obscuring the roadway. Be sure to turn on your hazards, and use flare sticks or reflective triangles to alert other drivers. Check out this list of supplies you can store in your car to keep you safe during an automobile emergency.
3. Gather Evidence: Although many accident victims are injured and disoriented after a car crash, it’s important to obtain as much information as possible afterward. Take pictures of the accident site, vehicles, objects, and people involved. Insurance companies will need full names, addresses, and phone numbers of everyone, including drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and any witnesses. Be sure to find out the insurance status of all vehicles and persons involved.
4. Attend Treatment: Undergo a thorough medical examination at a hospital following the car accident to treat related injuries. Many injuries from car crashes, like whiplash, do not show up right away. Failure to get medical care might have serious consequences over a long period. Do not neglect symptoms that feel unfamiliar or pain that appears hours later.
5. Call Columbus Car Accident Lawyer: Finally, do not delay in contacting a car accident lawyer after starting your medical treatment. Ohio law gives injured accident victims the right to recover financially for their losses after an accident, though it can be difficult to know your rights and options following an injury or crash. If you’re a victim of an accident, consult with a Columbus car accident lawyer who can provide you with guidance and assistance.

Speak with a Dedicated Columbus Car Accident Lawyer

Questions? Need help? The Jones Firm is committed to standing up for the rights of car accident victims. We know car accidents can impact your life in many ways, and we are ready to help you and your family move forward in the best way possible. Call 614-714-4714 or contact us online for a free consultation with a Columbus car accident attorney.