What to do After a Car Accident

Car accidents are often scary, unexpected, and life altering. It is important to know exactly what to do if this situation happens to you. Larsen Law Firm in Provo, Utah has experienced and knowledgeable attorneys to help you get through a personal injury claim due to a car accident. We want to make sure you are taken care of, no matter what the situation. We have provided you with some steps to follow to help you if a car accident does occur.

Stay at the Scene

It is important to not leave the scene of an accident. Whether you were the cause of the accident or not, criminal penalties will occur if you leave. You need to be there in order to provide evidence and support to those involved in the accident.

Assess the Situation

Immediately after the accident has occurred it is important to calm down. Having a calm mind will better allow you to assess the situation and take the necessary actions. Inspect yourself and those involved for injuries. If someone is unconscious or suffering neck pains you should have them remain still, depending on the safety of the area, as to not hurt them further. Wait for emergency medical personnel to arrive and follow their instructions.

Contact the Authorities

Whether the accident is small or large, contacting the police is always a good idea. The police can assist you with the steps you need to take in documenting the car accident as well as making sure the area is secure for others. Filing an accident report is always a good idea. Having official documentation of the incident that has occurred will help you when legal action is needed. Make sure you write down the officer’s name and badge numbers.

Move your Vehicle

If possible, move your vehicle out of the way of traffic and relocate to a safer area in order to exchange information with the other party involved in the accident. Never leave or get out of your car on the freeway or on a busy intersection.

Exchange Information

You will need to gather information from everyone involved in the accident. You will be exchanging insurance information in order to take care of the repairs. Make sure all the information is up to date and proper names are exchanged.

Gather Evidence

In case of an accident, it is always a good idea to keep a camera on hand. This way you can document all of the injuries and damage that has occurred in the accident. Take pictures of all the cars involved, license plate numbers, and street names. If there are any witnesses, take the time to get their information as well. They can help you later on when filing a claim.

A car accident is always unfortunate. You can better handle this situation if you remain calm and are prepared. After the accident has occurred and you are seeking legal help, Larsen Law Firm in Provo, Utah can help. Our Personal Injury attorneys will help you step by step in every legal process involved in dealing with a car accident.