Car accidents are not uncommon events. Many people perish or suffer injuries in them each year.
The Association for Safe International Road Travel estimates that in the U.S. alone, over 38,000 deaths and far more accidents can be attributed to wrecks. Because of these statistics and awareness of the dangers of the road, there is a multitude of tips and guides about safe driving practices. However, even with these and training, the incident rate of crashes cannot be reduced to zero. As a result, it is also important to know what to do after being involved in one.
1. Obtain Needed Information and Documentation
Get the contact and insurance information of any other parties involved in the accident. Also, get witness statements and pictures of any damage. These are things you may need to give to your indemnifier and to your accident injury attorney Maryville TN if you end up needing one.
2. Call Your Insurer
Notify your insurance company of the incident as soon as possible. There are often delays in the payout process and getting the ball rolling quickly can reduce the time it takes to fulfill your claim. It also helps ensure details are fresh in your mind so you can relate them more accurately.
3. Don’t Leave
Never flee from the site of an accident. Even if the wreck was minor, nobody was hurt and there was no property damage, it is illegal to just leave the scene. If the other driver or drivers ask, you have to provide your name, address and license.
The aftermath of a wreck can leave you feeling shocked and shaky, but it is vital not to forget these steps. Knowing what to do ahead of time and then doing it can considerably ease insurance and, if necessary, legal proceedings, later on.