8 Steps to Take if Involved in a Traffic Accident

Being in a traffic collision can be a terrifying experience, particularly if you, one of your passengers, or people in the other car have been injured. Here are eight steps you should take if you are involved in an accident:

1. Keep your wits about you. Do NOT leave the scene of the accident. Laws vary by state, but you do not want to run the risk of being arrested for hit-and-run on top of everything else. After getting over the initial shock of what just took place, check for injuries. If anyone has been injured, call 911 immediately.

2. If possible, move your car to the side of the road. In the event of a minor accident, you are going to be far safer on the shoulder of the road or highway as opposed to the middle of the road. For further protection, put warning signs up to alert oncoming traffic. You can do this by turning on your emergency flashers or conspicuously placing any reflective triangles and/or emergency flares you may carry in your trunk.

3. Exchange information. The information you collect should include the following:

• Driver’s license numbers
• Insurance information including phone number
• Names, addresses, and phone numbers
• License plate numbers and year, make, and model of the cars involved.

While you are exchanging information, it is very important keep your cool. Getting into an argument will only escalate an already stressful situation. At the same time, never admit fault to the other driver or make any concessions about how you feel or about the damage to your vehicle.

4. Write everything down. Take notes on what happened during your accident while your memory is fresh, including the speed you were driving, weather conditions, and any other pertinent facts. If you have a camera in your car, take pictures of any car damage or relevant information. It is always a good idea to keep not only a pencil or pen and paper in your vehicle, but to also keep a disposable camera. Additionally, take down the names and phone numbers of any passengers in the cars and of any witnesses.

5. Cooperate with police and emergency personnel. Get the names and badge numbers of police and emergency personnel who are on the site in case you need them later. Now is also the time to ask for a breathalyzer or related tests if you suspect alcohol or drugs to be involved in your accident. Do not forget to ask how to get a copy of the accident report.

6. Do not accept or offer to pay money to the other party involved in the accident. Accepting or giving money might affect the legal status of your case if your case has to go to court later. Besides, can you trust the other person not to report you to his or her insurance company anyway if you were at fault?

7. Contact your insurance company. Call your insurance company with the appropriate information to file a claim.

8. Hire a personal injury attorney, if you feel there is a need for one. However, make sure that you shop around for the right one. Ask friends for references. Then, interview several attorneys before you pick one.