I Was Injured in a Car Accident, What Should I Do?
The First 10 Steps to Take Post-Car Accident Injury
If you’ve just been in a car accident, feeling shaken is normal. Take a moment to breathe and calm down. What you do immediately after the crash can significantly impact your recovery. Follow these 10 crucial steps to enhance your chances of bouncing back physically and financially.
1. Assess Your Injuries
If possible, do not move anyone in the car unless there is an immediate danger to your life. If your injuries are minor and safe to do so, check the other vehicle (if applicable) to assess other involved parties. Do not discuss fault.
2. Look Out for Any Further Hazards
If your vehicle is in a busy intersection or freeway, move it out of the way. If you smell gasoline, moving away from the vehicle may be necessary. If you are in a remote location or it is nighttime, it is best to stay in the vehicle unless there is immediate risk of additional injury.
3. Dial 911
Provide your location and details of any injuries. Do not admit fault to the 911 dispatcher or to anyone else at the accident scene. Doing so can hurt your personal injury attorney’s ability to win the case.
4. Stay Calm and Avoid Arguments With Others Involved
Exchange information with the other driver and quickly photograph their license plate. A car accident lawyer can trace the tag if they provide an expired license or insurance info or if they flee. Avoid assuming blame or apologizing, as anything you say may be used against you in a personal injury case.
5. Snap Photos and Videos of the Scene
If safe, take photos and videos of the accident scene or ask a bystander for help. Capture the following to assist your car accident attorney in Phoenix and Mesa:
- Damage to vehicles
- License plates
- Vehicle positions
- Your injuries and those of your passengers
- A wide view of the scene
- Nearby signs or traffic lights
- Roadway conditions
6. Find Any Witnesses
Ask if there are any witnesses around the scene. Even if the other driver admits fault, you must get witness information if the driver changes their story later, as that is very common in car accident claims in Phoenix and Mesa.
7. Record Everyone’s Statements
Although you may be shaken, if you remember, start to record the interaction. They may admit fault and say things like:
- “Oh, I didn’t see you.”
- “It was all my fault.”
- “Sorry, I was distracted.”
8. When the Police and Ambulance Arrive, Get Medical Help
When the police arrive, they will ask if you are injured. If you feel any pain, inform the officer right away, as adrenaline can mask injuries. If you’re unsure about your condition, say, “I am not sure.” Claiming you’re not injured may be noted in the police report and could negatively impact your case with our personal injury attorney in Phoenix and Mesa.
After your statement, the officer will provide a police report number and information about where your car will be towed, if applicable. In some jurisdictions or less severe accidents, a police report may not be filed. If that happens, document as much as possible at the scene.
9. Visit the Emergency Room
If you are in pain at the scene, consent to be transported to the emergency room via ambulance. Your immediate health is the priority, not your vehicle or your belongings. A police officer may visit the hospital to get your version of events.
10. Contact an Accident Attorney in Phoenix and Mesa
After addressing your safety and medical needs, don’t hesitate to contact an accident attorney in Phoenix and Mesa. They can help you navigate the legal process, understand your rights, and secure fair compensation for car accident claims. Reach out to Elmm Law Group in Phoenix and Mesa today!