The Basic First Steps After a Car Accident

There are important steps to take at the scene of a car accident and afterward. Following these basic first steps will make filing your claim easier. Here’s a look at what steps to take after a car accident:

Stay at the Accident Scene Do not leave the accident scene. Leaving the scene, particularly when someone has sustained injuries or has been killed, will result in serious consequences. Stay at the scene until the police tell you that you can leave.

Call the Police Even in a minor accident, involve the police. Ask the police to file a report and obtain the names and badge numbers of the responding officers.

Exchange Information Get the name, contact number, address, driver’s license number and other basic information from the other driver involved. If there are any passengers, get their names, contact numbers and addresses.

Talk to Witnesses Talk to people who witnessed the accident. Make sure to get their names, contact numbers and addresses. Their testimony can play an important role in the claims process.

Inform your Insurance Company Explain the facts clearly.

Keep Track of Your Medical Treatment Keep a detailed account of the treatment or medications you receive. Keep copies of all medical reports and bills. They will serve as evidence of your medical expenses.

Take Pictures Take photographs of the damage to your car. Photographs can help your insurance adjuster determine compensation for the damage to your car.

Use Caution in Discussing the Incident Do not discuss the accident with anyone other than your lawyer, your insurance company and the police. Avoid talking to a representative of another insurance company.

Be Cautious About Early Settlement Offers If you are offered a settlement from an insurance company, do not accept it and consult with an attorney.

If you have been injured in a car accident, contact the lawyers at Dervishi Law Group, P.C. to help you file a claim. We specialize in personal injury cases.

Contact Us Dervishi Law Group, P.C. 2322 Arthur Avenue, Suite 3A Bronx, New York 10458 917-300-0797 or 718-619-4525 Email: fdervishi@dervishilaw.com www.dervishilaw.com