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Seven Important Steps After A Car Accident

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality of the modern world. In 2014, there were 2.3 million injuries caused by accidents in the US alone. An accident can wreak havoc on the lives of those involved with injury, trauma and financial repercussions. In the aftermath of an accident, many don’t think about what they can do to mitigate the effects an accident can have on their lives. However, there are steps one can take to make sure responsibility is taken and the burden of an accident doesn’t rest entirely on the victim. To learn more about how deadly can they be, see here this post about the Washington Auto Accident Statistics.

Road Police

Immediately after the accident

If you find yourself in an automobile accident, it’s best to start preparing immediately.  Remain at the scene to exchange vehicle registration, names and address with others involved in the accident. Note as much details of the scene, vehicle, people and damage as possible. Providing they haven’t left the scene, it’s important that you secure the right insurance details from the other party. If anyone has been injured, call an ambulance and follow these guidelines.

Inform your insurance company

According to an insurance damages expert, even if you don’t plan on making a claim, if your car has suffered damage, you should inform your insurance company immediately.

Gather information

As well as the details above, there is more information that can clarify the situation down the line. This link has an exhaustive list, but some of the more vital elements are:

  • Time and date
  • Contact details of everyone involved in the accident
  • Vehicle details including make, model, colour and plate number
  • Weather, visibility and lighting conditions
  • Name and number of any police at the scene
  • Photographs of damage and injury

Keep track of any medical fallout

In the follow up to a road accident, it’s important that you keep records all of medical visits. This includes consultations, diagnoses and treatments. Medical fallout includes physical injuries but also:

  • trauma
  • inability to work after
  • disfigurement
  • loss of affection due to stress

Get access to your hospital records for verifiable proof.

Track the owner of the vehicle

If they didn’t stay on the scene long enough to get more details, a plate can be enough to track down a car owner. If you haven’t already shared the details with the authorities, this site can help. With it, you find details about the vehicle using just the license plate. This information can come in handy in helping lawyers and police track down the other party.

Consider legal steps

If you’re bearing a disproportionate about of the burden of an accident, it is always worth considering a legal claim with the help of an auto accident attorney.  If you’re not at fault, it shouldn’t be your responsibility to pay for the steps you need to take to get your life back in place. Use specialists such as a truck accident lawyer or auto injury attorneys. They can calculate how much you be owed for any injuries or disruptions to your life.

Regaining confidence

A road accident can be a very traumatic affair and leave one lacking confidence, especially when it comes to driving. Take your time and take care of yourself, using whatever training or counselling you need to get back behind the wheel.

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