When you’re in a car crash, it’s important that you get the care you need. However, there are other important things to do as well, depending on your health following the crash. In the case that you’re able to speak to the other driver, it’s encouraged that you obtain some information on your own.
Obtaining your own information is a good way to help you make an insurance claim more easily. This information is also helpful for your attorney if you decide to pursue a lawsuit directly. Here are four steps to remember.
1. Call emergency services
After the crash, the first thing you need to do is to call 911. Whether you’re injured or not, it’s a good idea to have the police and emergency team come to the scene. The police take a report, while the emergency medical team takes count of everyone’s injuries.
2. Get the other driver’s license plate number and insurance information
While you’re awaiting help, get the other party’s insurance information, name, phone number and other identifying information. If the other person isn’t able to speak with you, get the make, model and color of the vehicle along with the license plate number.
3. Take photos or a video of the scene
To make things easier on yourself, consider taking photos of the scene, your injuries and the road to show if there are signs of braking. A video is also helpful, especially if you have a dash cam that shows how the crash occurred.
4. Go to the hospital
Finally, go to the hospital. Whether or not you feel fine, it’s important to have a record that you went to seek medical attention. Some injuries develop hours or days later, so an initial medical checkup could catch them early.
These are four things you should do after a crash. Remember them, and stay safe.
