Car accidents create chaotic environments. This can cause people to panic and be unsure of how to proceed to handle the situation. However, it is crucial to try and stay calm during this time. Doing so allows you to focus on creating the best outcome of a difficult situation.

In addition to staying calm, it can be helpful to follow the steps below after an accident:

Call the Police

You should always contact law enforcement after an accident, even if you are told otherwise. When the police arrive at the scene of an accident, they can secure it by directing traffic around it. This ensures your safety as well as other drivers on the road. In addition to this, law enforcement can draft an official report, take statements from witnesses, and any necessary conduct chemical tests. This information can be helpful when filing a claim with your insurance company.

Do Not Apologize

After an accident, it is important to avoid issuing an apology to the other party. In some cases, an apology can be seen as admitting fault for what happened. Because of this, you should be polite to them and contact emergency services. This ensures you avoid discussing liability entirely.

Photo or Video of the Wreck

If the scene of the accident is safe, taking pictures and videos can be helpful. This allows you to have physical evidence of any broken glass, deployed airbags, skid marks, and bloodstains that happened during the accident. Documenting the weather and road conditions can also be helpful in the future if you wish to file a claim.

Record Important Details

Before leaving the scene of the accident, you should gather all the important information. These are details that can help you to file a claim. This can include the names of witnesses, their phone numbers, and the registration information of all vehicles that were involved in the accident. It is important to do this yourself and not assume that a law enforcement officer will do it for you.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Receiving medical attention is the most important thing you should do after being involved in a car accident of any kind. Regardless of if you feel any pain at the moment, it is possible to have an injury without realizing it. While emergency responders can conduct examinations on the scene, you should see a doctor for an official diagnosis. This will document your injuries, including the time, place, and reason as to why they happened. This is all information can be used to file a claim.

Contact our Firm

Albers & Associates is comprised of experienced personal injury, criminal defense, and family law attorneys. Our firm is proud to serve clients in Baltimore, Maryland. If you require strong legal representation that will fight to protect your future, contact the attorneys at Albers & Associates to schedule a consultation.