Each year, three million people in the United States are injured in car accidents. Car accidents are very common and can result in permanent injuries. Because of this, it is important to know what to do next if it happens to you.
Read on to learn about what to do if you get injured in a car accident.
Check For Injuries
After a crash, the first thing you should do is check for injuries on yourself and passengers who are present. If anyone appears hurt, call 911 immediately. Someone who is seriously injured should not move until help has arrived.
Move Vehicle From the Road
Knowing what to do if injured in a car accident involves knowing how to stay away from more danger. If possible, move your car from the roadway so that you are not in harm’s way to other vehicles. If you are on the highway, try to pull your car over to the shoulder.
If you cannot move your car, it is still important for you and other passengers to get to a safe environment away from traffic. If you got injured in a car accident and cannot move, have someone stay with you until help arrives. An accident that occurs at night makes it harder for other vehicles to see you, so be sure to turn on your hazards.
Check For Vehicle Damage
Anyone who is uninjured should take the time to assess the vehicles involved in the accident. Before the cars are moved, take pictures of the damage in the position where it occurred. If you are unable to take pictures, do anything to keep the image fresh in your mind even if you have to draw a diagram.
Report the Accident
A serious accident should include law enforcement. Call them to the scene so that they can create a report. You should keep a copy of this for insurance purposes.
Exchange Information
Always exchange names and insurance information at the very least after an accident. Stating, “I was injured in a car accident”, is not enough for your insurance company. Depending on the state you are in, you may also need to get the other driver’s phone number, vehicle information, names of witnesses, and badge numbers for any law enforcement officers who responded to the scene.
File an Insurance Claim
If you choose, you can file an insurance claim after the accident. This is the next step on what to do if you’re injured in a car accident because it can protect you financially. However, you don’t have to file a claim if you don’t want to.
Whatever collision coverage your policy has can cover the damage on your car. Medical payments coverage and other personal injury protection can help cover the costs of injuries you may have.
Hire a Lawyer If Necessary
If your insurance claim is denied, you can hire a lawyer to help you receive the compensation you deserve. Getting injured in a car accident can be a traumatizing event, but it is important to try to stay calm and get through the proper steps. Even if your injury isn’t major you should still follow these tips to get through the process smoothly.
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