7 Things To Do If You're In An Accident

Accidents are frightening. Whether you are involved in a fender bender or a severe motor-vehicle accident, emotions can run high and injuries can be debilitating. The uncertainty of the situation can cause some individuals to make poor decisions, such as fleeing the scene of the accident.

While most of us don’t think about accidents until they happen, being armed with the knowledge of what to do if one occurs can help reduce the stress in the situation and ensure the best outcome. Below, you will find steps to take if you are involved in one:

• Stop
• Exhibit his or her driver’s license
• Exhibit his or her insurance identification card
• Give his or her name and residence, and
• Report the incident to a police officer.
• If no police officer is in the vicinity, then he or she must report the incident to the nearest police station.

Failing to do so can result in a fine, other penalties as well as prison time, depending on the severity of the accident.

2. People first. It may be a natural reaction to first check on the damage to your vehicle. However, a matter of seconds can make a difference between life and death. If you are mobile and not injured yourself, check on the rest of the passengers and get immediate medical attention, if necessary.

3. Call the police. If the accident results in property damage or physical injury, call the police. Ask that a formal police report is filed and take down the names and badge numbers of all officers involved. It is your right and can make a significant difference in your case.

4. Take down contact information for witnesses. If somebody saw the accident, don’t assume that the police will take down their information. If possible, get their names and contact information yourself.

5. Take photos. Try to take photos of all property damage and anything else you find to be significant. In addition to assisting your attorney, photos will help your insurance claim adjuster better determine the extent of the damage.

6. Call an attorney. If you are injured in the accident, after you call the police, call a personal injury attorney. When you call our office, we will instruct you on the best steps to take right away to help ensure the best outcome for your case. Keep in mind that often the most important actions in a personal injury case are taken at the site of accident and shortly thereafter.

7. Only discuss your accident with your attorney. After an accident, you will likely receive calls from investigators, your insurance company, the insurance company representing the other vehicles and, possibly, attorneys.

It is your right – and in your best interests – to politely redirect all callers to speak only with your attorney instead. Like they say on television, “anything you say can and will be used against you”.

If you are involved in a car accident, motorcycle accident, workplace or premises accident, give Gropper Law Group a call at 212-366-4600 for a free case review. Remember, we only receive compensation if you do.