What Should I Do at the Scene of a Car Accident?

Car accidents can be sudden and disorienting, leaving you feeling jarred and full of adrenaline. One moment you’re driving, and the next you’re experiencing the force of several tons of metal colliding with your vehicle. In the initial moments following a crash, it’s crucial to try to remain calm and reorient yourself.

If you find yourself in a car accident, it’s normal to feel stressed and overwhelmed. However, taking specific steps can help ensure your safety and protect your rights, especially if your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence. By taking the following steps, you can likely regain some control in the situation:

Assess the situation calmly and rationally.

Ask yourself three important questions, and if the answer to any of them is “yes,” call 911 immediately.

1. Are you seriously injured?
2. Is anyone else seriously injured?
3. Is anyone in danger?

911 personnel will get the right authorities to you as soon as possible. However, it’s important to note that if you are unsure about any of these questions or are experiencing any kind of emergency, it’s better to err on the side of caution and still call 911. The emergency personnel will assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action. Even if the answer is not yes to any of these questions, it’s still important to contact the local police department and obtain a police report to document the incident. This can be helpful in case any legal or insurance issues arise in the future.

Check that everyone on the scene is safe

Look around the accident scene – is it safe for the people and vehicles involved to remain where they are or is traffic being blocked? Are you and others at risk of being hit? Can you move the vehicles away safely? Take into account the condition of the vehicle(s) and how far away the nearest shoulder or median is.

Document the crash scene, if possible

It is crucial to prioritize safety and avoid endangering yourself or others, or causing any undue delay in clearing the roadway after a car accident. If it is safe to do so, you may take photographs or a short video of the initial crash scene before moving the vehicles.

However, if it’s not safe, you should move the vehicles to a safer location before documenting the scene as thoroughly as possible. This includes taking photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, the condition of the road, the surroundings, and any other relevant details. If the other driver seems to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or engages in any unusual behavior, such as discarding alcohol bottles, make sure to document this information as well.

Exchange information with the driver(s)

You’ll also need to exchange information with the driver. A police report should have this information, but you should collect it as well for your own records. You should gather the following information:

• The driver’s license, address, and phone number (photograph both sides of the license).
• Insurance information: insurance company name and policy number (photograph the insurance card). It’s important to verify if the policy is current, if the driver is listed as the policyholder, and if the vehicle they were driving is listed on the policy.
• Photos of the vehicle and license plate.

If there were any passengers or witnesses present, you should obtain their contact information. In the event that a driver flees the scene, do not attempt to pursue them. Instead, photograph their license plate if possible and report the incident to the police.

Seek medical attention for your injuries

In the aftermath of a car accident, the severity of your injuries will determine whether you require medical attention at the scene or not. However, it’s essential to seek medical help without delay, even if you feel fine. A physician can assess you and identify any underlying or internal injuries that may have been caused by the accident. Furthermore, obtaining medical attention soon after the collision demonstrates to the insurance company that you are taking necessary measures to recover and file a claim, if necessary.

Notify your insurance company

It is important to inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible and provide them with all the necessary information. You are not obligated to provide any details or admit fault. Your primary objective is to inform them about the accident and you may choose to refer them to your Kansas City personal injury attorney for further communication.

Call an attorney

Collaborating with a personal injury lawyer can give you peace of mind as you’ll have a skilled legal representative who will strive to safeguard your rights and welfare. They can help you navigate through the complex legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and obtain the appropriate compensation that you deserve.

A personal injury attorney can help in several ways. They can:

1. Provide legal expertise: Personal injury attorneys are trained and experienced in the legal system and can provide you with expert advice on your case.
2. Investigate your case: Your attorney can investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.
3. Negotiate with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to settle for less than what you deserve. Your attorney can negotiate with the insurance company to secure the maximum compensation possible.
4. Represent you in court: If necessary, your attorney can represent you in court and fight for your right to financial compensation for your damages and losses.
5. Provide emotional support: Suffering from an injury can be emotionally taxing. Your attorney can provide you with support and guidance throughout the legal process, helping you feel more confident as your claim or case progresses.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a trusted personal injury attorney. At Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys, we have the knowledge, experience, and resources to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and providing you with personalized, compassionate representation every step of the way, and we are licensed in both Missouri and Kansas.

To schedule a consultation, call our offices or fill out our contact form today. We serve clients from offices in Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, St. Joseph and Parkville, MO, as well as Overland Park, Kansas City and Olathe, KS.

Related:

• Yes, You Should See a Doctor After Your Car Accident
• Spine and Neck Injuries From Car Accidents