If you are unlucky enough to suffer a car accident with another driver, then it is important that you understand what to do, step by step. This is because, as with any moment of emergency, you will likely feel a great deal of shock and panic, which is not helpful when you are trying to make rational decisions. Indeed, it is perfectly natural to experience a flood of emotion, which can lead to mistakes and even injury.
By having a clear understanding of what you need to do in the event of a car accident with another driver, you will cut down the likelihood of these mistakes from happening and leave you better able to process the situation. Here is what you need to do if you have a car accident with another driver:
Table of Contents
Make sure you are legally covered
While no one anticipates being involved in an accident, it is imperative that you are fully covered by insurance, which will help pay for any damage caused to both you and the car, as well as cover any liable damage inflicted on the other car.
Of course, in situations like this, you should also seek counsel with a car accident attorney, who can help give you the necessary advice and prevent you from being vulnerable to a legal case built against you. Reaching out to an attorney that specifically practices in car accident cases will ensure that you are putting yourself in the right pair of hands for providing support, advice and helping showcase that it wasn’t your fault.
Check you and the other driver are okay
In the first few moments after an accident, the most natural instinct will be to get out of the vehicle. This should be of top priority, especially if you are in a vulnerable position (such as on a freeway). However, before you move anywhere, you need to make sure that you are okay.
Look for signs of any injury, and move slowly at first to feel for any weak spots. If you feel well enough to walk, you can then extricate yourself from the vehicle. Once out, and if it is safe to do so, it is important to check on the other driver to see if they are alright. Only do this if there is minimal chance of injury because another car can easily get caught up in your accident.
Ascertain what damage has been done
The next step will be to check if any damage has been inflicted on either of your vehicles. Again, only check this if you are in a safe position to do so, but it is important in order to work out who was to blame and how badly hit your car is.
Do not start arguing with the other driver. Remain calm, note any damage and move to the side of the road.
Call the authorities
If they haven’t already been called, it is time to call the authorities in order to bring medical assistance (if necessary) and the police to close and clear the road. This step may not be necessary if you have only nudged another driver, but if there is significant damage, then the authorities need to be notified as quickly as possible.
