1. CHECK IF YOU (AND YOUR PASSENGERS) ARE OKAY AND IF THERE ARE ANY APPARENT INJURIES – If there are apparent injuries, call an ambulance immediately. Let the EMTs examine you (and your passengers) and decide if you need to go to the hospital.
2. DON’T MOVE THE SCENE – Prevent you and the other parties involved from moving any part of the accident, even a minor one.
3. CALL THE POLICE – Always call the police no matter what. A police report might be needed in filing a claim. Follow all police instructions and answer all their questions truthfully.
4. EXCHANGE INFORMATION – You will need to obtain the name, address, insurance, and telephone number of all parties involved in the accident. If police respond to the accident, they will handle the information exchange and make it available to you and the other drivers.
5. TAKE PICTURES – If you are able to, take pictures of the vehicles, visible injuries, and the surroundings (street location, possible landmarks, and witnesses). If you cannot take pictures at the scene of the accident, take them as soon as possible after the accident.
6. CHECK FOR WITNESSES AND GET THEIR INFORMATION – If witnesses are involved, attempt to get their information in case they are needed to be contacted in the future.
7. DO NOT ADMIT FAULT! – This is extremely important! Even if you think it is your fault, you may be wrong or the blame could be partially placed on both/all parties involved. Be civil and help the other driver(s), but do not apologize.
8. REPORT THE ACCIDENT – Report what happened to your insurance company as soon as you can. They will then cooperate with the other parties including the other driver(s), the police, and your attorney.
9. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION – Most injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents are internal and not visible. You should always seek medical attention even if you believe that you are feeling okay. It is often the case that the injuries become more apparent a day or two after the accident.
10. CONTACT A LAWYER – Consult an attorney. They will be able to assist in protecting your rights, gaining the needed evidence, and providing legal advice throughout the whole process. The attorney will be there with you every step of the way to make sure you are fully compensated and that you receive the medical treatment you deserve.
