Car accidents are an unfortunate reality of life that may leave you distressed, stupified, and uncertain of the accident's aftermath. Thus, comprehending what procedures to take following a car collision is imperative. To acquaint you with the appropriate steps, we've elucidated everything in this comprehensive blog, from what to do after a car accident to preserving legal rights and why hiring an accident attorney in Reno can be fruitful! Let's dive in.

What Should Be Done Following A Car Accident

●First Things First: Check for Injuries and Call for Help

○Assess the Situation:

Take a moment to breathe and analyze the situation immediately following an automobile collision. Check if you or anyone involved in the accident has sustained any injuries. If so, prioritize your safety and that of others by taking necessary precautions, such as turning off the engine and switching on hazard lights.

○Call 911:

Call 911 right away if anybody is harmed or the accident has caused grave property damage. It will notify emergency medical services and police enforcement about the situation. Calling 911 is not just for your protection but also a legal necessity in several states.

●Exchange Information and Document the Accident

○Collect Crucial Information:

Accidents can be distressing, making it crucial to ensure everyone's safety. Afterward, gather vital details like names, addresses, phone numbers, driver's licenses, license plate numbers, insurance information, and the model and color of the vehicles from everyone involved. Furthermore, collecting contact information from any witnesses to the accident is prudent, as their testimony can be valuable later on, and it can expedite the claim process.

○Document the Accident Scene:

Use your smartphone to take pictures of the accident scene from various angles. Understand the road intimately and everything on it. Watch the vehicles' cues, detect skid marks or debris, take note of those traffic signs, and coat yourself with knowledge about the weather conditions. This visual evidence can be crucial in determining fault and supporting your insurance claim or potential legal case.

○File a Police Report:

If you're involved in a collision, a police officer may visit the scene to take an official report. If they don't, it's critical that you either visit your local police station or file a complaint online within a few days. This report might be helpful to provide evidence if you need to file a lawsuit or if the opposing party disputes the facts of the accident.

●Seek Medical Attention

You must consult a doctor following an accident even if you believe you aren't hurt, as some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, tend not to be perceptible and might worsen if left unaddressed. Additionally, having a medical professional document your injuries can be essential in supporting a personal injury claim.

●Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance carrier soon after an accident to report it and supply the relevant information. Your insurer will assist you throughout the claim process and counsel you on any subsequent actions, including arranging repairs for your vehicle or obtaining a rental car if necessary. More significantly, be truthful with your insurers since false statements might culminate in coverage refusal or criminal penalties for insurance fraud.

●Consider Hiring a Reliable Accident Attorney

If you've sustained severe injuries in an accident or the event triggered expansive property damage or loss, it's best to confer with a personal injury attorney in Reno. Envisage the following reasons to do so:

○Protect Your Legal Rights:

Navigating the complex legal system can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with personal injury law. An experienced accident attorney can guide you while protecting your rights.

○Determine Fault and Liability:

Since determining culpability in an auto accident can be arduous, notably when numerous people are engaged, seeking assistance from a competent attorney can help establish fault, negotiate with insurers, and collect the necessary evidence to support your case.

○Maximize Your Compensation:

With the appropriate assistance of a reliable and skilled attorney, you can obtain reasonable compensation for medical expenditures, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other damages. On the contrary, without legal counsel, the insurers may compensate you less than you deserve.

Conclusion

Getting acquainted with what steps to take following a fender bender is crucial in safeguarding your legal rights and obtaining the necessary support for complete physical, emotional, and financial recovery. This guide demonstrates the pragmatic steps to outfit you in effectively handling the aftermath of such an event.