What to Do After Your First Car Accident: 5 Steps to Legally Protect Yourself

Distracted driving, bad weather conditions, and running a red light are some of the top causes of traffic accidents. You may get nervous when you suffer your first car accident. However, you can protect yourself after a traffic accident if you take the right measures.

It all comes down to knowing what to do immediately after you suffer a car accident. Don't know what to do?

We've got you covered. Here are the 5 steps you should follow after suffering a traffic accident.

1. Check Yourself and Other Parties for Any Injuries

The first thing you should do after suffering an accident is to check yourself for any injuries. Afterward, you should get out of your car and check if anyone suffered physical injuries that need medical care. If that's the case, you should immediately call 9-1-1 to get medical attention.

2. Call the Police

While it isn't required to call the police, you should consider it. When the police arrive at the accident scene, the agents will document the accident and write a report. You may use this report as evidence in any insurance or legal claim.

3. Ask the Other Parties for Their Contact Information

Before leaving the scene, the Nampa Passenger Injury Lawyers at Skaug Law, state "It's important to ask the other parties for their contact information. You'll need these details to complete any insurance or legal claim.

You should ask for information such as their legal name, phone numbers, addresses, drivers' license numbers, and insurance information. During these exchanges, make sure to never apologize or admit liability for the accident. Keep in mind the other parties may use your admissions against you when filing any claim.

4. Take Photos of the Damages and Accident Scene

While the police document the incident to complete their report, you should take photos of the accident scene. Make sure to take photos of the scene and damages to all vehicles involved in the accident. You can use these photos as evidence for your claims.

5. File Your Insurance Claim

While you may contact your auto insurance company when you suffer your accident, you may consider filing your claim after leaving the scene. To obtain the most relief, you should follow their claim process down to the T and submit any necessary paperwork.

When you're injured in a car accident, you may also consider contacting a local attorney. A legal expert can protect you from insurance companies and provide insight into your damages.

Can You Protect Yourself After Your First Car Accident?

Suffering your first car accident can be intimidating, but only if you don't take action. Never underestimate the importance of documenting the event at the accident scene. While gathering basic information from the parties involved is important, you should also prioritize your wellbeing by visiting a doctor.

You may file a claim with your auto insurance carrier, but you should also consider consulting an attorney. Consider meeting with several local attorneys that specialize in traffic accidents.

When you sit down with your potential lawyer, you should bring all documents and evidence related to your car accident. Sharing this information will allow your attorney to offer insight into your relief eligibility.

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