5 Important Things You Need to Do After a Car Accident
After a car accident in Brooklyn, it’s tough to think clearly. Your adrenaline is surging, and you’re not sure what to do next.
But the next steps are critical to your health and the financial outcome of the situation, especially if someone else is to blame for the accident.
It’s important to handle any injuries first. If everyone’s okay, you can worry about collecting evidence from the scene in case you need to prove fault.
Take these five steps if you’re in an accident.
1. Check Yourself and Passengers
Even if the accident is minor, you need to stop and check on everyone.
Start with yourself. If you’re not seriously hurt, check on your passengers to make sure they’re okay.
You’ll also want to make the scene as safe as possible. Turn on your hazard lights or set up flares if you have them. This makes the accident more visible to prevent other people from running into your vehicle.
Move to a safer spot if possible, such as on the sidewalk.
2. Report the Accident
It’s always a good idea to report the accident to the police, even if you’re not seriously injured.
States often have requirements for reporting accidents. In New York, you’re required to file a report if the property damage caused to at least one person is over $1,000.
You’re not required to call 911, but you do need to file the report within 10 days.
If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately to have an ambulance dispatched to your location.
3. Exchange Information
You’ll need to swap info with the other drivers involved in the accident. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance carrier, insurance policy number, driver’s license, and license plate number.
Keep the exchange factual instead of talking about blame. Simply exchange the info you need.
Use this information to file an insurance report once you handle everything else. If the other person is to blame, you might need to deal with their insurance company to get compensation.
4. Document Everything
Documentation immediately after the accident and during your recovery is crucial. The information you document can help you get maximum compensation for the at-fault party’s insurance company.
If you’re not seriously injured, document things at the scene, including taking photos. Write down witnesses’ names and contact information.
Make sure you get a copy of the police report before you leave the scene.
5. Seek Medical Attention
You might not notice any injuries initially, but car accident injuries often show up later.
Whiplash is a common injury from accidents. You’ll usually notice the symptoms within 24 hours of the accident, but sometimes it can take a few days to show signs of whiplash.
See an auto accident doctor as soon as you notice any symptoms of a potential injury.
Documenting any injuries you have is very important. Your doctor should complete accurate documentation in case you qualify for compensation for your injuries.
Know What to Do After a Car Accident
The steps you take after a car accident can impact how quickly you recover and what type of compensation you receive if someone else is to blame. Seeking medical care is an important step, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident recently, contact us to schedule an appointment for a medical exam. Metro Healthcare Partners, an auto accident clinic in Brooklyn, can help. Our multi-specialty medical staff includes orthopedics, neurology, pain management, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and more.
Our doctors accept no-fault insurance, workers’ compensation, medical liens, and major medical plans.
NEW: Telemedicine Appointments are now available, call (718) 769-2521 today, and get a consultation in the comfort of your home.
