- Evaluate injuries of parties involved in the car accident.
First, make sure all passengers of both parties are okay. If someone needs medical help, call 911 immediately.
- Call the police.
You'll need to involve the police to help evaluate the situation and file a police report.
- Evaluate damages of both cars.
Begin inspecting the details of the cars involved in the accident. What damages are visible? How severe are the damages? Details are important. If you can, be sure to write everything down. And, thanks to technology, many cell phones have cameras on them. Take pictures for evidence.
- Talk to the police and file a report.
Be sure to talk to the police and file a police report. When you talk to the police, tell them the facts only. Don't guess if you don't know. If you are injured or feel hurt, tell the officer that also. Even if the car accident is minor, it's important to file a report with the police as proof of the incident. This report can be referenced by lawyers and insurance agents.
- Talk to the liability company
You may need to call the at-fault driver’s insurance company to report the claim. Do not assume the at-fault driver will do this. Remember that you do not have to give a recorded statement to the at-fault insurance company or its adjuster. Even when the other driver is clearly at fault, this statement may provide a reason for the insurance company to deny your claim.
- Gather the information.
Make sure you get all the details about the other driver. Details include name, address, phone number(s), license plate, insurance company, and vehicle id number. When a license plate number doesn't cut it, a vehicle id number will.
- Call your insurance company.
Call your insurance company as soon as possible so they can begin processing your claim right away. If you call them from the scene, you can provide them with more specific information about the incident.
- Talk to your insurance company about towing and rental cars.
If the car accident is severe enough, you may need to call a tow truck and arrange for a rental car. Your insurance company can help you with this, so make sure you ask about it if needed.
- Call a family member or loved one.
Car accidents are scary and stressful and it's recommended to get some support from someone who cares.
- Call an attorney
If you've been hurt through no fault of your own, and you have questions, call an injury attorney. There are times when compensation is not adequate and an attorney is needed. Be sure you have all the details about the incident to give to your lawyer.
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