According to the National Safety Council (NSC), 4.8 million people were seriously injured in car accidents in 2020, and 42,060 lost their lives. Even the best drivers can experience a car accident on the road, which is why you must remain vigilant when driving from A to B.
Also, there are many facts you should know to protect your finances, wellbeing, and yourself from liability if you ever experience a collision. Here are five tips to know if you’re involved in a car accident.
- Remain in Your Vehicle
If possible, remain in your car following a crash. People in shock may increase the severity of their injury by moving their bodies too soon after an accident. As long as your vehicle isn’t on fire or smoking, you should move it to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. Remember to keep your seatbelt fastened while you wait.
- Call for Emergency Assistance
Drivers should keep a cell phone on their person, which will allow them to call emergency assistance following a car accident. Unless informed by the other driver or a witness that they have called the ambulance and police services, you must do so yourself.
You’re legally required to report all road traffic accidents to the police, and they will need to take a statement from you to finish a report. Plus, you might have sustained hidden injuries you cannot see or feel during a car crash, such as concussion, soft tissue injuries, or internal bleeding. So seek immediate medical attention following an accident.
- Don’t Admit Fault
While it is essential to exchange information with any drivers involved in a collision, you must not engage in conversation about the incident or accept blame. A false admission when arguing with another driver might result in you becoming legally and financially liable for the crash. As both insurance companies and law enforcement determine who caused an accident, your false admission could provide them with evidence to confirm you’re the guilty party.
- Take Photographs of the Scene
Photographs are the best form of evidence for most vehicle accident cases. If possible, take various photos of the wreck, including damage to your car, any other vehicles involved, and of the scene, such as skid marks, a lack of signage, and any details that could prove another driver was speeding or driving dangerously. The images will provide an experienced car accident attorney with the evidence they need to support your testimony and help you receive the maximum compensation you deserve for a car accident claim.
- Call Your Insurance Company
If both vehicles have experienced minor damage during a collision, you might be tempted to settle the issue without notifying your insurance company. Yet, this tactic might come back to haunt you, as you could lose coverage if you or the driver sustain more damage than initially believed. Always go through the appropriate channels after a car accident to protect your finances.
