In the moments after a wreck, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Here is what to do immediately after a car wreck that will help protect your safety and legal rights.
1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
Check yourself and anyone else involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away.
2. Move to Safety if You Can
If the vehicles are creating a hazard and can be moved, get to a safe location off the roadway if possible. Turn on your hazard lights and stay alert to traffic around you.
If the vehicles cannot be moved, stay in a safe place nearby until emergency responders arrive. Do not stand in traffic or put yourself at further risk.
3. Call the Police and Make Sure a Report Is Filed
When speaking with the officer, stick to the facts. Do not guess, exaggerate, or accept blame.
In Birmingham, if the crash is not an emergency, you can call the Birmingham Police Department’s non-emergency line at (205) 328-9311. If anyone is injured or you are in immediate danger, call 911.
4. Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Get the following information from all drivers involved:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
5. Document the Scene
If you are physically able, take as many photos and videos as possible. Important things to document include:
- Damage to all vehicles
- The position of the vehicles
- Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
- Traffic signs or signals
- Visible injuries
- Weather and lighting conditions
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Most insurance policies require you to report an accident. Give your insurer basic facts about the wreck.
If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, do not feel pressured to give a recorded statement or accept a quick settlement offer.
7. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Getting prompt medical attention protects your health and also creates a clear record connecting your injuries to the wreck. Waiting too long to see a doctor can make it harder for an insurance company to take your claim seriously.
8. Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer as Soon as Possible
After a car wreck, insurance companies often move fast to protect their own interests. Before accepting a settlement or giving detailed statements, it is wise to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.
A lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, deal with the insurance company, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Wreck
In addition to knowing what to do, it is important to know what not to do. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Leaving the scene too soon
- Failing to call the police
- Refusing or delaying medical treatment
- Admitting fault
- Forgetting to gather evidence
- Talking too freely with insurance adjusters
- Accepting a quick settlement before knowing the full value of your claim
We Are Here to Help
At Alabama Personal Injury Lawyers, we fight for people who have been injured in car crashes and help them pursue the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, contact our team today for a free consultation.