The Department of Transportation states that proper “post-crash care” can enhance survivability, prevent secondary crashes, and streamline access for first responders. A car accident checklist can help motorists achieve all of these goals – and many others. By following this checklist, injured victims may find it easier to access proper medical care, gather appropriate records, and pursue compensation once their conditions stabilize. The truth is that many people have no idea what to do after a car accident, and some attempt last-minute online research to figure out their next steps. Whether a motorist develops a car accident checklist immediately after a collision or plans ahead, they can take further steps alongside an experienced car accident lawyer in New Hampshire. These legal professionals could also offer more targeted guidance based on the circumstances of each collision. To learn more, consider dialing (603) 707-4800 – and speak with Friedman & Bresaw, PLLC.
1. Pull Over in a Safe Location
If motorists still have control over their vehicles after collisions, they should attempt to pull over in a safe location. This first step is more important than many realize, as stopping in an unsafe location could increase the chances of additional collisions and injuries. For example, stopping on a bridge or in a tunnel is unsafe, since it blocks traffic and puts injured motorists at further risk. If possible, try to pull over on a shoulder – as far away as possible from moving traffic. This will also make it easier for first responders to access injured motorists and provide effective treatment.
In addition, motorists should avoid getting out of their vehicles after collisions unless it is completely safe. Too often, people have been struck and severely injured by passing cars after exiting their vehicles on busy highways. The safer option may be to remain inside the vehicle until first responders arrive. Remember to activate the hazard lights to send a visual warning to passing drivers. While it may be tempting to inspect the damage and speak with other motorists, this could be a risky move. The shock of a car accident could distract motorists from fast-moving traffic, leading to fatal consequences. At this point, it may be necessary to call 911.
2. Prioritize Your Health
After stopping in a safe location, motorists should prioritize their health. Before taking any additional steps, it may be worth checking for injuries. Adrenaline can mask the pain of these injuries, making them difficult to detect. In addition, knocks to the head can cause memory loss – and motorists may not remember exactly what happened during the collision. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be extremely subtle, and sometimes victims do not realize that they are suffering from intracranial hemorrhages (brain bleeds). The National Kidney Foundation notes that motorists may not notice internal organ injuries after crashes. Neck and spine injuries may also be difficult to detect. If there is any possibility of a serious or moderate injury, consider remaining seated inside the vehicle until first responders arrive.
Once first responders arrive, motorists should accept treatment – even if they feel like they escaped completely unscathed. As a precautionary measure, motorists should also allow first responders to transport them to the nearest hospital. Although these steps might seem unnecessary, the injuries could be worse than they initially appear. In addition, motorists should know that it may be impossible to pursue compensation after refusing treatment. Medical records represent important evidence in a New Hampshire injury claim. This is why it is also important to follow up after emergency treatment with specialists and family doctors. Remember, a successful injury claim can provide compensation for all medical expenses related to a crash.
3. Gather Information
If the injuries are not too debilitating, it may be possible to gather information at the crash scene – potentially before first responders arrive. Perhaps the easiest way to gather information is with a smartphone. Motorists may reach for their phones and take photos or videos of the scene – and they may capture this footage without leaving their vehicles. When taking a video, motorists may want to add an audio commentary about what just happened. Memories are most accurate in the first few minutes after a car accident – and it may be difficult to recall these details later. This footage could be particularly useful when capturing the license plate of a driver who subsequently flees the crash scene.
Motorists might also want to exchange information after a collision. This information might include names, phone numbers, addresses, and license plate numbers. If the driver is not the owner of the vehicle, ask for information about the owner. Insurance details are also important, and a motorist should note the car insurance companies and policy numbers of everyone involved in their collision. Finally, it may be helpful to gather contact information from eyewitnesses.
4. Speak with Lawyers, Insurance Representatives, and Police
After their injuries stabilize, a motorist should make various phone calls. First, they may need to file an official accident report with the police. An existing police report could be helpful as motorists subsequently call their car insurance companies. At this point, it may be necessary to describe the accident to insurance representatives and follow their instructions. However, one might want to avoid providing too much information to an insurance provider – and it may help to avoid further discussions until speaking with an attorney. A car accident attorney at a firm like Friedman & Bresaw can help injured motorists negotiate effectively with insurance representatives.
Learn More About the Next Steps with Friedman & Bresaw, PLLC
A car accident checklist may prove helpful in the first hours and days after a car accident, but further steps could be necessary. Once their injuries stabilize, patients may need to consider options for compensation – such as injury claims. This step could require evidence of negligence, and a New Hampshire car accident lawyer may be able to help victims prove that their crashes were caused by other people. Although victims may attempt to gather some evidence at the scene of the crash, it makes more sense to prioritize medical treatment. Attorneys can follow up, gathering additional evidence on behalf of victims and handling further legal steps. To get the ball rolling, consider speaking with Friedman & Bresaw, PLLC at (603) 707-4800.
