5 Steps to Follow After a Car Accident

We see car accidents every single day along the road, but many of us don’t actually think that would be us in that situation.  Unfortunately, for most people, it will happen at least once in their lives.  Whether it happens only once or multiple times, car wrecks will always be a high-stress situation.  What’s important is that you know how to handle the situation in order to get the best outcome, which is why everyone should follow these 5 steps after a car accident.

What To Do After a Car Accident

Step 1: Check for injuries

The first step that is the most important is to check if you, your passengers, or the people in the other car are hurt.  Although the wreck may be very stressful or give you a lot of adrenaline, it’s important that you take the time to do this step well.  If anyone was hurt in the accident, call for medical attention immediately.

Step 2: Move your vehicle out of traffic

If the accident was minor and you and the other driver can safely move your cars out of traffic, this will be your next step.  If the crash was severe or anyone was hurt, leave the cars where they were; moving them could only cause more damage.

Step 3: Report the accident

Call and report the accident to the police.  If the accident was severe, the police will come and help.  In some minor accidents, though, the police may not respond to the collision.  In both scenarios, the next step is crucial.

Step 4: Document the Scene

Gather all of the information from every person that was involved in the crash, as well as the vehicle information of the other driver.  This includes their name, address, phone number, drivers license number, vehicle identification number, make and model, color, and year of their vehicle.

Aside from this information, you’ll want to gather evidence to support your case.  You can do this by taking pictures or videos of both cars (especially of the damage), noting the streets and time that the accident occured, or anything else that you think could help.

Step 5: Hire a lawyer

You may think that an insurance adjuster is trying to help you, but their goal is to compensate you as little as they can.  Instead of getting stuck with confusing questions that could lower your compensation, hire a lawyer to fight for what you’re legally entitled to.

This includes, but not limited to: 

• Your pain and suffering
• Payment for your medical bills
• Rehabilitation
• Lost wages
• Lost earning capacity if you are unable to return to work

Getting the Help You Need

At AMS Law Group, we have experience handling different types of accidents, including, but not limited to: car accidents, 18-wheeler truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, and uninsured drivers accidents.  While you recover from your accident, you can feel confident knowing that we’re doing everything we can to secure your rights.  

Although we’ll handle the case for you, we understand that you may have some questions about the process.  Check out 3 of our frequently asked questions below; if we didn’t answer your question or you would like more information, please contact us.

FAQ

1. Can you press charges against a hit and run driver?
   Yes, you can.  In addition to pressing criminal charges, you can also pursue civil penalties for the harm that you experienced.
2. What happens to uninsured drivers in an accident?
   If you were hit by an uninsured driver, you will likely still be covered.  This is because Texas law requires insurance companies to include uninsured motorists as part of their own auto policy.  The only way that you wouldn’t be covered is if your insurance company offered the service and you declined.
3. What information should you exchange after a car accident?
   After an accident, you should get information from everyone that was involved in the crash.  This includes their name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, vehicle identification number, make and model, color, and year of their vehicle.