In 2021, traffic deaths were higher than in the last 16 years, reaching nearly 43,000 people. In fact, every day, more than 7,500 people experience car accident injuries, more than in any other first-world country.
In the stress and confusion of an injury-involved motor vehicle accident, you may not know what to do. Therefore, these are some steps you should take.
Focus on safety
First, you should check your body for injuries. Then, check those in your vehicle to make sure everyone is all right. Then, move your vehicle to the side of the road if you can. Turn on your hazard lights and leave your vehicle if it will not move. Contact the police and call an ambulance if anyone received injuries. You may also call a tow truck. Then, wait patiently for help.
Document the scene
While you wait, take photos of the scene. You can also write down the location of the accident and your experiences. Get contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident. You can also exchange information with the other drivers, including full names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance policies, vehicle details, license plate numbers and driver’s license information. Also, ask the police for a copy of the report and write down their names and badge numbers.
Get medical treatment
Even if you do not feel as if you received an injury during the accident, you should seek medical attention. It can take hours or days for any pain to appear due to your adrenaline. If you receive serious injuries, allow the ambulance to take you to the hospital.
Taking the right steps after an accident makes it easier to file your claim and get the treatment and damages you need.