Dos and Don’ts After a Car Crash

Being involved in a car crash, even one that seems minor in nature, is very stressful. Whether you were alone in the car, had your children with you, or were with another adult, you can take a number of steps to protect yourself. The most important thing to do after an accident is calling the police or 911 – ensuring you and the other victims are safe, and to get an authorized report about the accident.

Let’s take a look at the common dos and don’ts after a motor vehicle accident.

Things you SHOULD do after a car accident

Try to take the following steps after a Charlotte car crash, if circumstances and safety allow:

• Call the police to the scene
• Seek medical evaluation if necessary by responding firefighters, EMTs, or paramedics
• Seek follow-up medical treatment if necessary, such as the emergency room or your primary care physician
• Exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved
• Write down the names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident
• Make sure your version of how the accident happened is provided to the investigating officer
• Take pictures of the accident scene, including your vehicle, the other vehicles involved, debris, road conditions, traffic signs and signals, your injuries, and any property damage
• Obtain a property damage repair estimate from your trusted mechanic or multiple mechanics to compare quotes
• Keep a record of all expenses related to the accident, including any and all out-of-pocket medical expenses
• Keep track of the time you miss at work due to injuries caused by the car accident for proper reimbursement
• Contact a Charlotte car accident attorney to discuss your case

Things you SHOULDN’T do after a car accident

Be sure to avoid doing any of the following after a car accident:

• Never move your vehicle after a crash unless you need to do so for safety reasons
• Refrain from standing in an unsafe area after the crash as you await a tow truck, firefighters, or police officers
• Never leave the scene of the crash until the police tell you it is okay to do so
• Do not throw anything related to the crash in the trash, including parts that came from your car or any clothing that has blood on it
• Do not stay in your car; exit your vehicle as soon after the accident as possible if you are able, especially if there is smoke coming from under the hood
• Do not provide a written or recorded statement to any insurance adjuster until you have spoken to an experienced car accident attorney
• Never agree to any settlement offer until you have spoken to an experienced accident attorney

Dealing with an insurance company after an accident

Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be challenging. Insurers are in the business of paying as little as possible when settling claims, and will try to use everything you say against you when offering a settlement. It is in your best interest to refrain from speaking with an insurance adjuster until you’ve talked to an attorney.

Were you injured in a Charlotte car accident? Contact the experienced personal injury attorneys from Warren & Kallianos, PLLC to discuss your case. We can protect your right to compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses. To set up a consultation, call today at 704-377-7777 or complete a contact form at your convenience.