10 THINGS TO DO

IMMEDIATELY

AFTER A WRECK

1

STAY IN YOUR CAR. CALL 911

Report the accident to police, follow the dispatcher's instructions, and wait for an officer to arrive.

2

CHECK ON ALL PARTIES & SECURE THE SCENE

If you're uninjured (and it's safe to do so), make sure everyone involved is okay. If so, attempt to clear the roadway or put out flares.

3

EXCHANGE INFORMATION WITH THE OTHER DRIVER

Exchange your name, address, phone number, email & insurance info with the other driver.

4

If able, make sure to take photos and videos of the accident scene and the damages. Be sure to collect contact info from any witnesses. As soon as you can, write down or audio record your recollection of how the accident occurred.

COLLECT EVIDENCE

5

SEEK MEDICAL TREATMENT

While your first instinct may be to "tough it out," being evaluated by a medical professional is extremely important when it comes to your health, as well as your potential insurance claim.

6

SPEAK WITH AN ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

If you were injured, it's always in your best interests to speak to an attorney as soon as possible — and preferably before speaking to the insurance company.

7

NOTIFY YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY

Call your insurance company and open a claim. Do not give a recorded statement unless instructed to do so by your lawyer.

8

GATHER DOCUMENTS & EXPENSES

Keep a file of all related documents as well as receipts for any expenses incurred as a result of the accident.

9

CONTINUE MEDICAL TEATMENT

While you may be eager to settle, it's important to NEVER discuss money with the insurance company until AFTER you've finished treatment and know the full value of your damages.

10

MAKE AN OFFICIAL DEMAND

After treatment, have your lawyer prove up damages and provide an official demand to the insurance company. If an agreeable settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will proceed to litigation.

If you’re ever injured in a crash, it’s strongly advisable that you discuss your case with an attorney before agreeing to anything with the insurance company.  While we’d all prefer a quick settlement, the truth is that a personal injury attorney can make a huge impact on the value of your car accident case.