The moments immediately following an automobile collision can be very emotionally charged and oftentimes chaotic and confusing.  However, even though it may be a stressful time, there are several very important matters that need to be addressed.  First and foremost the safety and health of everyone involved in the collision should always first concern. Additionally, besides medical needs, there also some important practical steps that you can take to allow you to successfully address current challenges and prepare yourself in the best way possible for the difficulties that you may face. Below is a list of the Top Ten Most Important things to do after an automobile collision.

 

1)      Stop your vehicle at the scene of the accident, assess the situation and turn on your hazard lights. Do not move your car unless it is blocking traffic and can be moved safely. In that case, move it to the safer side of the road as near to the scene as possible.

 

2)       If anyone was injured in the collision or if there are any other types of emergency situations call 911 immediately. Attend to any injured persons and remove them from the roadway if there is a threat of imminent harm.

 

3)      Call the police even if there are no serious injuries and make certain they file a police report of the automobile collision.   Although the other driver may request and even plead with you not to do this, it is very important that you notify the police and make sure that the responding officer completes an accident report. If there are witnesses request that the responding officer to have them write out statements of what they witnessed and to include their names, addresses and telephone numbers.

 

4)      When the ambulance or the police arrive at the scene, you should immediately report any injuries or potential emergencies. You should report the facts to them as accurately as you can but do not under any circumstances admit fault to anyone.

 

5)      Try to obtain the basic information from all other drivers, including their full names, driver’s license numbers, vehicle registration number, vehicle make and model, vehicle tag numbers, and insurance information. Offer your name, license number, and insurance carrier to other driver(s), as well. However do not discuss your insurance coverage policy limits with anyone at the scene as soon as possible, of the following: the scene of the accident, from all angles; the surrounding area; any property damage; and your serious injuries. They could be quite useful when it comes time to determine who pays for damages.

 

6)      Seek medical attention, if necessary. It is important to do this as soon as possible, even for minor injuries. Oftentimes even very serious injuries do not exhibit symptoms until days or even weeks after a collision.

        

7)      You will need to contact your insurance company and advise them that you've been involved in an automobile accident. However, before you contact your insurance company we highly advise you to contact Gillin Gillin & Lindbaek, to discuss your matter. Remember, insurance companies do not work for you and may not have your best interests in mind.

 

8)      Do not supply a recorded statement about the accident; if your insurance company or that of any party involved in the accident asks you to do so, consult an attorney first. The unfortunate reality is that insurance adjusters will often seek to minimize the amount of money re

 

9)       As soon as possible after the collision, create a detailed report of what you remember about the collision. Be sure to include the time of day and weather and road conditions at the time of accident in your report.  Remember, the longer you wait to create this report, the more likely you are to forget what may be important details.

 

10)  Absolutely, never accept an insurance settlement without knowing what the future medical conditions or medical care costs will be. Seek the advice of an experienced attorney at Gillin Gillin & Lindbaek,  if you have been offered a settlement from an insurance company.