You’ve just been in an accident.
You know it wasn’t your fault, you were t-boned as you went through a green light. The other driver ran a red light.
After the immediate shock wears off, you start to regain your senses. But now what? What are you supposed to do?
Keep reading for a step by step guide on what to do after a car accident that’s not your fault.
What to Do After a Car Accident That’s Not Your Fault
Accidents vary in severity of damage both to the vehicles and to the people in them. If you’re seriously injured are feeling shaky and light-headed, we don’t advice getting out of the car unless doing so poses a danger. Wait for emergency responders.
If you aren’t severely injured, however, there are important steps you should take to ensure the best outcome from a bad situation.
1. Stay Calm and Check for Injuries
Before you can start making decisions about what to do after a car accident that’s not your fault, you must maintain a level head. Otherwise, you won’t be able to think clearly and may make crucial mistakes.
First, check for injuries. As we suggested before, don’t push yourself if you’re severely injured. Stay calm and don’t negatively engage the other driver. They probably feel bad enough already and your anger will only complicate the situation.
2. Call the Police
Now, you need to call the police to ensure medical personal arrive and a police report is on file. This will come in handy not only for your insurance company but also for an attorney, should you need one.
Once the police arrive, allow them to do their thing, answer any questions they have, and don’t get emotional.
3. Gather Information
After you’ve called the police, start gathering information from the scene of the crash while you wait. You need pictures from inside of your car, the exterior of both cars, and any signs of the crash left on the road or surrounding area.
You’ll also want to get the other driver’s information — name, phone number, and insurance information. Finally, if there are witnesses present, get their contact information.
4. Talk to Your Insurance Company
Once the immediate action is over, you’ll need to file a claim with your insurance company. They’ll want information from you, the police report, and anything else you can provide.
If you talk to the other driver’s insurance company, make sure you’re not recorded, as you may say something that will work against you, should the event escalate.
5. Get Checked Out by a Doctor
Next, you need to get checked out by a doctor. This is one of the most important steps in what to do after a car accident that’s not your fault.
Many injuries show up days after a car accident. Having a doctor examine you may be necessary to get medical treatment covered by insurance. If you wait too long, you may end up paying for it out of pocket.
6. If Necessary, Hire an Attorney
Lastly, if worst comes to worst, hire an attorney. Whether the driver is being unhelpful, their insurance is refusing to pay for damages, or whatever else may happen, an attorney may be necessary to get what is owed.
Let Us Help You
Now that you know what to do after a car accident that’s not your fault, make sure you get the compensation you deserve. We can help.
Contact us to speak to a personal injury attorney specialist. Don’t wait another day trying to fight for what is yours, let us fight for you!