Being involved in a car crash can leave you shaken and unsure about what to do. It’s important to know post-crash procedures before a car accident happens, so you already have a clear understanding of how to proceed. Chernick & Chernick of Springfield, Massachusetts, hopes you’re never in a serious traffic crash, but it wants to ensure you know how to handle the situation if you are.
Your first concern should always be your safety and the safety of others.
If you’re not seriously injured, carefully exit your vehicle. If you’re injured, wait inside your vehicle and call for help.
Check on other crash victims to see whether emergency medical attention is required. Dial 911 if anyone is seriously injured. Never move an unconscious person unless their life is in immediate danger in their current location.
Only move your vehicle before the police arrive if it’s operational and hampering traffic. Turn on the emergency flashers of any vehicles that are inoperable.
Call the police and gather information.
Even minor crashes require a police report for your insurance company and/or pursuit of a personal injury claim. Never admit or place blame for the crash at the scene.
Gather pertinent information, including the names of all parties involved; names and contact information of eyewitnesses; insurance information, license plate numbers and makes and models of all vehicles involved; the location of crash; and names and badge numbers for all responding police officers. Jot down everything you remember about the crash while the memory is fresh.
Document the scene by taking photos with your cellphone. If the police don’t respond to the crash, use your documentation to report the incident to the police department with jurisdiction where it occurred.
Contact insurance company and make doctor’s appointment.
Notify your insurance company immediately after the crash and provide all the details you have, including where they can obtain a copy of the accident report.
While you may not have required medical attention at the scene, see your doctor to ensure you don’t have hidden injuries.
Consult a top car-crash attorney
Even minor car crashes can result in injuries. Massachusetts law places time limits on filing an automobile accident claim and any gaps between the crash and seeking treatment will be used against you by insurance companies. Chernick & Chernick has successfully represented thousands of Massachusetts auto-accident victims. Call us for a free consultation to ensure your rights are protected.
Additional Text
https://www.arjacobslaw.com/faqs/
https://www.esurance.com/info/car/how-to-handle-a-car-accident