Whether you’re driving long-distance on an open road or simply driving around town, getting into a bad car accident can be a traumatic experience that can have a devastating effect on the lives of those involved. Your life can be changed forever in a matter of seconds. From physical injuries to emotional trauma, car accidents can cause long-term physical and psychological damage.
Statistics show that there are 160,000 car accidents in Canada each year, of which 2,800-2,900 result in deaths.
Since car accidents are an unfortunate reality, it’s a good idea to be prepared and know what to do in case you get involved in one.
Before we dive deeper into the topic, we must stress the importance of obtaining the right car insurance. Car insurance is an essential element of owning and driving a car. It’s a financial safety net that protects against the financial costs associated with accidents, theft, and other damages to your vehicle.
If, for instance, you live in a bustling city like Toronto, you should search for a reputable brokerage to help you find the best Toronto car insurance provider.
They can offer you peace of mind and cover the costs associated with medical bills, repairs to your vehicle, and even legal fees if you are found at fault.
As we said, this is a nerve-wracking experience so it’s important to know how to deal with the aftermath of a car accident. This six-step guide will help you if you ever find yourself in a car accident.
Remain Calm
After a car crash, it’s important to remain calm and take the necessary steps to ensure your safety. The first thing you should do is assess the situation and make sure that everyone involved in the accident is okay and not in immediate danger. Then, take a few deep breaths and try to stay as composed as possible. Doing this will help you think clearly and make decisions that are in your best interest. It may also help others involved in the accident to remain calm as well.
Assess If Someone Needs An Ambulance
After an accident, your safety and that of your passengers is your number one priority. After the accident, immediately move your vehicle to a safe area and check yourself and any passengers in your vehicle for visible injuries. However, you’re not always able to determine if any of the vehicle occupants are injured. You can only find out if you go to the hospital for a comprehensive checkup. Also, If you’ve sustained serious injuries, don’t move until help can get to you.
Call The Police
Being involved in a car crash can be one of the scariest things to ever happen to you. It’s important to call the police after a car crash so that you can get the proper medical attention and legal assistance you need.
The police will document the accident and make sure that any potential criminal activity is reported. Calling the police provides an independent third-party witness who can provide evidence if needed in court or for insurance claims.
Take Pictures of the Scene
Photographic evidence of the aftermath of an accident is the most valuable information you can give to the authorities and accident lawyers. Take as many pictures as you can after the crash. You can also include details such as where the cars came from and the conditions they were in.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver
After a car crash, exchanging information with the other driver is essential for both parties to move forward and protect their rights. It’s important to exchange contact information, insurance details, and vehicle details such as model and make to ensure that both parties have the necessary data to file an insurance claim or take legal action if needed.
You should also try getting other useful information such as:
- Name and contact information of any witnesses
- The enforcement officers responding to the car accident scene should also provide their name, badge number, and contact number.
Protect Your Rights
This is probably one of the most important things to do following a crash, after ensuring your safety. Insurance companies often ask for a written statement as soon as they are informed of the accident.
The other driver and/or their insurance may also want to make a settlement offer before the extent of damages is determined. However, talking to your insurance company or accepting a settlement before you know the full extent of the damage or injuries can be a costly mistake.
For this reason, contacting an attorney and getting legal guidance is the best way to protect yourself after an accident.
Final Thoughts
Every day, people are involved in fatal car accidents or ones that end in severe injuries. It’s completely normal to feel frazzled and frustrated after being involved in a car crash but as a driver, you must take certain steps after the collision to protect your safety and the safety of others.
If you want to ensure that all your documentation is as complete as possible, call a lawyer who will work with the hospital and insurance companies to earn you the compensation you deserve.
