What to Do After a Car Accident

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

The actions you take after a car accident are important. There are nearly 20,000 car accidents each year in North Dakota, resulting in more than 5,000 injuries. While no one plans to get into an accident, everyone should be prepared if it happens.

Your preparedness after an accident can make a difference in the settlement you receive from car insurance companies for your injuries and property damage. These are the steps everyone should follow after an accident:

• Call 911 and get a police report: Calling the police gets a document from a neutral third party to note the details of the accident.
• Exchange information with other drivers: Collect other drivers insurance information, phone number, car details and driver’s license number.
• Be careful about what you say to other drivers: Do not offer opinions about whether you were at fault for the accident or not. Stick to the facts with the police officer and avoid discussing the accident with other drivers or witnesses.
• Take photos: Use your smartphone to capture as many pictures as you can of the damages to all vehicles, and of the surroundings.
• Gather witnesses: Get information from any bystanders that witnessed the accident.
• Inform your insurance company: You need to inform your insurance company about your accident. However, you do not want to give them any information other than the facts of the accident before you speak with an experienced North Dakota accident attorney.
• Seek medical treatment: Even if you think you feel fine, you should get checked out by a physician. People with spine and neck injuries often report feeling fine right after the accident, despite having traumatic injuries.
• Seek legal representation: Immediately retaining an experienced North Dakota accident attorney protects you from getting less than you deserve from the insurance companies. The sooner they get started, the more information they can gather for your case.

If you have been injured in an auto accident, call the car accident attorneys at Lawson Law Firm P.C. Our office in located in Minot, but we can come to you at your home or office if you are unable to come to us. Schedule a free initial consultation by calling 701-484-4878 or contact us online.