You’re sitting at a stoplight, minding your own business when suddenly… CRASH! Someone rear-ends you.
Auto accidents are never fun, and it’s especially frustrating when it happens through no fault of your own. If you find yourself in this predicament, what you do next can make a big difference.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to the steps you should take immediately after a rear-end collision.
1. Check for Injuries
The first thing to do after any vehicle collision is to check that everyone is okay. This might seem obvious, but in the heat of the moment, it’s easy to forget the basics.
If there are injuries, call 911 immediately, even if they seem minor.
2. Call the Police
The next step is to call the police. Depending on the state where the accident occurred, you may or may not be required to do this. However, having a police report is often helpful if you end up filing a lawsuit or having to deal with your insurance company.
It’s also unfortunately true that drivers sometimes get into altercations after an accident. Having the police on-scene will help ensure that everyone stays calm and that you get all of the information you need.
3. Gather Information
You’ll also want to gather as much information as you can while you’re on the scene. Take photos of both vehicles as well as anything else that might be relevant – like stop signs or lights.
Get the driver’s contact information and their insurance details. If there were any witnesses to the accident, attempt to get their contact information as well.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Often, injuries from an accident don’t really show up until a few days later. Getting rear-ended while stopped can cause whiplash and other long-term injuries.
It’s always a good idea to get checked by a doctor, even if you don’t feel like you’re injured. Sometimes being proactive can help you avoid more significant pain down the line.
If you end up with issues later, showing that you took it seriously from the beginning can often help your case.
5. Visit a Law Firm
If you’ve been in a rear-end auto accident, there’s a good chance that it wasn’t your fault. Since rear-end collision injuries can last for years, you should seek compensation.
Remember that in this case, you’re getting money from the insurance company, not from the driver. So don’t feel like you’re doing anything to hurt them. Contacting a reputable law firm after an accident is the best way to protect yourself.
Even if you don’t plan on filing a real-rend collision lawsuit, it’s a good idea to find out what your rights are. This way, if things end up getting worse, you’ll have already started the process.
Staying Calm After a Rear-End Collision
It’s easy to panic after a rear-end collision. Now that you know exactly what to do, you’ll be able to remain calm and take care of yourself.
It’s always a good idea to plan ahead and make sure you’re prepared for when the unexpected happens. We have lots more articles to help keep your mind sharp. Browse through a few more now!
