WHAT YOU SHOULD AND SHOULD NOT DO AFTER AND ACCIDENT!
Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are involved in an accident;
1. To the extent possible, stay calm following your accident. Take a deep breath, check for injuries, and call an ambulance. Even if you think you are “fine,” it is a good idea to either let the ambulance transport you to the hospital or to immediately go see your physician. Accidents cause your body to be flooded with adrenaline, which can mask pain, yet once the adrenaline wears off, you may realize you were injured and you are not fine.
2. If the accident is minor, and it will not put anyone in jeopardy to do so, move the cars involved in the accident to a safe place. Turn on hazard lights when necessary.
3. Call the police. Even if your accident is minor, and even if the other party tries to persuade you to just “handle it among yourselves,” don’t skip this step! Without a police report, you may find it extremely difficult to convince your insurance company you were not at fault and to pay for your injuries and damages. Request a copy of the police report.
4. Take photos of the accident scene, if you are able, including photos of the damage to both vehicles.
5. When you are physically able, make notes about the accident. These notes should include the name, phone number, license plate number and insurance information about the other person, as well as witness contact information.
6. Keep track of all medical expenses, including prescriptions, all doctor bills, chiropractic services, rehabilitative services, etc.
7. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after your accident. Give your insurance company the basic facts of the accident.
What you should NOT do after an accident;
1. Never admit responsibility for the accident, even if you think it might have been your fault, or even partially your fault. Even saying “I’m sorry” to the other party could potentially be misconstrued as an admission of fault, so avoid saying anything that could sound like you are saying the accident was your fault.
2. Never, ever leave the scene of the accident, particularly when there are injuries, or you could face criminal charges for hit-and-run.
3. Never discuss your accident on social media, and, in fact, don’t talk to anyone about the accident other than your own attorney, your own insurance company and the police.
4. Never sign any document without speaking to an attorney first.
5. Never agree to allow the insurance company to record your conversation without speaking to an attorney (you are not required by law to allow your conversation to be recorded).
6. Avoid talking to a representative of another insurance company without discussing it with your own insurer and/or your attorney.
Hope you will not needs these. Share this with everyone in your family please. If I can ever help with your insurance coverage or a question, please call me at 913-948-6590.