5 Things to Do Immediately After an Automobile Accident (and 5 Things You Should Never Do)

WHAT TO DO RIGHT AFTER AN ACCIDENT

1. Call the police and move your car to a nearby spot away from the traffic flow.

Safety should be your number one priority after a car accident. If you or someone else is injured, call 911 and request an ambulance. If you are unable to call, ask someone else such as a passenger, bystander, or someone from the other vehicle. Even if no one is injured, calling the police will help with potential insurance claims down the line. Having official documentation of the accident is important.

If possible, move your car to a safe location close to the scene of the accident. Put on your emergency flashers and stay in a safe place until the police arrive.

2. Document the scene, including pictures of all involved vehicles.

Take as many pictures of the accident as you can. Include all the damaged areas of your car as well as the other vehicle(s) involved in the crash. Take photos of the nearest street signs and intersections where the accident occurred. If there are any other details that are relevant to the cause of the accident, take pictures of those too. Recruit someone else to document the scene if you are unable to do this yourself. 

Having clear documentation of the crash will help determine fault after the crash.

3. Get the contact information for all passengers and witnesses.

Obtaining the contact information of the other drivers, passengers, or witnesses after you have left the scene can be tricky, so it’s important to do this while you are still at the scene. Obtain as much information as possible, including full names, phone numbers, addresses, email, license plate numbers, and the name of the other driver(s)’ insurance company.

Having accurate contact information for the involved parties will make it easier to file an insurance claim or take legal action if needed. 

4. Contact a lawyer who specializes in automobile accidents.

This should be done as soon as possible for several reasons. First, Michigan has strict statutes of limitations for filing auto accident claims. Under Michigan’s No-Fault law, you have one year from the accident to file for Personal Injury Protection benefits. Also, it’s important to get your claim started while your, as well as any witnesses’, recollections are still fresh. 

Michigan’s No-Fault system has detailed filing requirements. An experienced Michigan car accident attorney can help you navigate the process of getting the benefits you’re entitled to for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.

5. Seek medical care as soon as possible after the accident.

Even if you weren’t hurt badly enough to require an ambulance, it’s important to get medical treatment as soon as you can. Some injuries don’t show up right away, especially if adrenaline is masking the pain. 

Have a friend or family member take you to the emergency room or urgent care facility. Tell the medical staff about all of your injuries, including those that may seem minor. If you hit your head or lost consciousness at any point, make sure that it is noted in your records. If your doctors require any follow-up medical appointments, be sure not to miss them. 

WHAT NOT TO DO AFTER AN AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT

1. Don’t leave the scene of the accident.

It’s against Michigan law to leave the scene of a motor vehicle accident. After you have called the police and requested an ambulance, if necessary, stay in or near your car until help arrives.

2.Don’t admit fault or talk about the accident with the other driver(s).

If you talk to the other driver or their passengers, limit the conversation to small talk. Under no circumstances should you admit fault, even if you think you caused the accident.

3. Don’t discuss your injuries or those of your passengers.

Most people are not able to accurately assess their injuries immediately after an accident. If asked whether you are hurt, say you will have to see a doctor before you can determine the extent of your injuries. Never say you are fine, as many conditions take weeks or even months to become apparent.

4. Don’t talk to an insurance adjuster.

While it’s important to notify your insurance company of the accident, you should not discuss your case with an insurance adjuster before talking to an accident attorney. This includes paperwork from your own insurance company as well as the other driver’s insurer. In the wake of a serious automobile accident, a victim may accept a premature and inadequate settlement. A car accident lawyer will prevent you from making this costly yet common mistake.

5. Don’t miss medical appointments or ignore your doctor’s advice.

If you file a lawsuit, your medical records may become evidence in your case. If you skip medical or therapy appointments, this could be used against you. However, if you are asked to submit to an “independent medical examination” (IME), contact your accident lawyer before responding.

LET US WIN THE COMPENSATION YOU DESERVE

If you or a loved one is injured in a car accident, choose us. Our experienced legal team knows what it takes to win your case, and we have the expertise and resources to get the compensation you deserve.

Michigan’s automobile accident law is complicated, but finding the right lawyer is simple. Click the link below or call 1-800-CALL-SAM today to get started with a free, no-obligation consultation.