What To Do After A Car Accident

What to do after a car accident? There are some steps you can take after a car accident to help ensure everyone’s safety, abide by the law, and protect your claim and possibly fight a false claim by the other party.  

9 Things To Do After A Car Accident

A car accident can be a frightening, upsetting and even traumatizing experience, but understanding what you can do afterward is critical for your security and everyone involved. Here are the nine essential steps to take after a car accident:

Check For Any Injuries To Yourself

If you are hurt, dial 911 or ask another person to do so. Try to remain still and wait for medical help if you are critically hurt.

Check The Safety Of Your Passengers

Check any other passengers inside the car if you are able to do so safely. Contact emergency services if someone is hurt, or ask a bystander to do so.

Get to safety

Move yourself and passengers to the sidewalk or the side of the road if you can. Move the car to the side of the road if it is safe to drive but is creating a hazard in the roadway. If the car is not drivable, leave it alone and find a safe place to wait for emergency personnel/tow truck.

Call 911

It is recommended to call the police after an accident.  Police may decline to respond if there are no injuries reported. If there are injuries, the police will respond, hopefully collect all parties information such as insurance, driver’s license info, and license plate numbers.  They may record the scene and complete an accident report. If the police do not respond, you can complete a report witin 10 days online with the Nevada DMV.  Here is a link to their form.  https://dmv.nv.gov/pdfforms/sr1.pdf

Your insurer may request a copy of your police report if you file an insurance claim.

Wait for help

To warn other drivers to slow down, turn off the engine, turn on the hazard lights, and use road flares if you have them.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau advises being cautious around bandit tow vehicles. These are the drivers of tow trucks who pull over and provide unsolicited assistance.  This could be a scam. They have a history of convincing victims to allow them to tow their cars to questionable locations where the cars are held captive in exchange for exorbitant fees.

Exchange information

After confirming that neither you nor your passengers have been hurt, give the other driver your insurance and contact information. It is a good idea to keep a copy of your driver’s license, insurance, and registration in an envelope in your glove compartment to hand the other driver.  

The following is the most crucial information that drivers should share following an accident, according to III:

• Contact information and full name
• Policy number and insurance company
• License plate number and driver’s license number
• Model, color, and type of vehicle, and 
• Accident location

It may be best to avoid too much communication with the other driver.  Tempers may be hot, and people can be angry and argumentative. Just get the above information.  You do not need to blame the other party or accept responsibility for the accident.  You do not need to discuss the details with the other driver. Wait in a safe place for the accident responders.

When you or your attorney submits an insurance claim, the insurance company adjuster examining your claim will assess who is at fault based on a review of the vehicles and property that had been damaged, the information you and the other parties provided, and any documentation to back it up, such as photos taken at the scene or the police report.

Document the accident

You might be surprised how many drivers who are at fault for an accident try to blame the innocent party.  Sometimes they are even successful at blaming the other person! To better protect yourself, try to:

• Identify the police officers. Get the complete name and badge number of every responding police officer as soon as they arrive.
• Get a copy. Find out from the on-duty police officers how to get a copy of that accident report and when it will be available. You will likely need this report in the future.  
• Take pictures. Take detailed photos and videos of your car from various angles to document the damage to the two vehicles in the accident. Take photos of the license plate on the other car, too. During the claims procedure, you can provide this documentation to your insurer to prove fault.
• Take down names. All people involved, especially passengers in the other car, should have their names and addresses noted.
• Talk to witnesses. List the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident if there are any.  Have them write a short statement if they are willing.
• Note any nearby businesses who may have video footage of the incident.  Write down their names. 

Keep this accident information page within your car to keep this documentation organized.

Contact an attorney or notify the insurance company of the accident.

If you are injured, you should consider contacting an attorney, especially if you do not have health insurance.  

If you contact your insurance company directly  they will explain the process of handling the claim, including how to handle damage to your car.  If your car is deemed a total loss, you should contact an attorney to make sure you are getting the maximum value for your vehicle.  

Even seasoned drivers can become stressed after an accident, but you can avoid needless anxiety by taking simple steps. 

What happens if I make a claim myself with the insurance company?

When dealing with car accidents, it’s crucial to consider various factors, including deductible, rental, court, state, and the way insurance policies work. In such situations, lawyers may become involved to navigate legal issues. The order of events typically involves assessing the damage and assigning an insurance adjuster to determine blame and repair costs.

Your coverage plays a pivotal role in whether repairs or the actual cash value are compensated in case of a total loss. If injuries occur and health insurance is lacking, exploring options like Medicaid for eligible individuals becomes important, as it can cover future medical bills.

To navigate this process efficiently, it’s beneficial to understand different types of insurance, judge the issues at hand, and consider the role of lawyers. Clients, anyone involved, and products like car insurance policies should be part of the equation, as well as controlling expenses. Tips for renters, states’ regulations, and assessing coverage costs can be valuable.

Utilizing online resources, such as a website or mobile app, to get quotes and connect with an agent can streamline the process. This applies not only to car insurance but also life insurance and home insurance. Keeping calm and seeking doctor’s care are essential for personal well-being, while staying informed about insurance facts and careers in the industry is valuable. The home page of a reliable insurance provider can serve as a control center for accessing information on different types of insurance and managing expenses effectively.

What information must I collect during the accident scene?

Legally speaking, you must provide the address and name of everybody involved at the accident scene, among other details. In addition, you need to exchange insurance information and record information about all witnesses to the incident.

In addition, you need to record the following information about the scene of the accident:

• The crash’s time and date;
• The plate number, model, color, and make of the vehicles involved;
• Driving conditions, including weather and road quality;
• The damage inflicted upon your car and where;
• Any injuries sustained by pedestrians, drivers, or passengers;
• The name and phone number of every witness;
• Receipts for cab services and other forms of transportation if an accident prevents you from using your vehicle;
• Photos of any construction present at the scene.

Additionally, you must take as many photos as possible of the damaged cars and other things at the scene. 

What are the legal obligations after a car accident?

After a car accident, there are several legal obligations that you should be aware of to ensure you handle the situation appropriately. These obligations may vary depending on your jurisdiction, so it’s essential to consult with a legal professional in your area for specific advice. 

• Check for injuries: Ensure the safety of all parties involved and call for medical assistance if necessary. Your priority should be the well-being of everyone affected by the accident.
• Notify law enforcement: Call the police to report the accident, even if it’s a minor one. A police report can be valuable for insurance claims and legal purposes.
• Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved in the accident. That includes names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance policy details.
• Document the scene: If it’s safe to do so, take photos and gather evidence from the scene. That can help support your version of events.
• Comply with the law: Follow any legal requirements and deadlines for reporting an accident or filing claims in your jurisdiction.
• Consult an attorney: If the accident resulted in injuries or significant property damage, it’s a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney. They can provide legal guidance and protect your interests.

Remember that these laws are broad and can not address every particular legal obligation in your area. It is best to consult with a car accident lawyer to ensure you fulfill all your legal obligations after an auto accident and understand your rights.

What If the Other Party Denies Fault or Liability?

When you’re involved in a car accident and believe the other party is at fault, it can be frustrating and stressful if they deny responsibility. However, it’s essential to know how to handle this situation calmly and effectively. Here are some steps to consider:

• Exchange Information: Ensure you exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, as you usually would after an accident. It is essential for filing a claim with your insurance company.
• Collect Evidence: Gather as much evidence as possible. That may include taking photos of the accident, vehicle damage, and any relevant road conditions or traffic signs. Witness statements can also be valuable.
• Contact the Police: If the accident is serious, it’s a good idea to involve law enforcement. The police report can serve as an official account of the accident.
• Report to Your Insurance: Notify your insurance company about the accident, even if you believe the other party is at fault. They will guide you through the claims process and can investigate the incident further.
• Consult with an Attorney: If the denial of fault leads to a complex legal situation, consult with a personal injury attorney. They can provide advice on how to pursue legal cases if necessary.

It’s important to remember that determining fault in a car accident can be a complex process. The other party’s denial of fault is not the final say in the matter. Following these steps and seeking the guidance of professionals when needed, we can navigate the situation more effectively and work towards a fair resolution.

How can an attorney help you with your car accident?

An attorney can be a valuable ally when dealing with the aftermath of a car accident. Here’s how they can help you in simple terms:

1. Legal Expertise: Attorneys specialize in understanding the laws and regulations surrounding car accidents. They can help you navigate the complex legal system, ensuring you follow the right procedures and meet important deadlines.
2. Protect Your Rights: Your attorney will ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. They’ll help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure that insurance companies and other parties don’t exploit you.
3. Investigate Your Case: Attorneys have the experience to investigate the accident thoroughly. They gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and work with experts if needed to determine liability and prove your case.
4. Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Dealing with auto insurance companies can be challenging. Attorneys can handle negotiations on your behalf to maximize your car settlement and ensure you’re not shortchanged.
5. Ensure Fair Compensation: Ultimately, an attorney’s goal is to help you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.

Hiring an attorney after a car accident can make a significant difference to your ability to recover physically and financially. They have the expertise to guide you through the legal process and fight for your best interests.

Have You Been Injured in a Las Vegas Car Accident?

Have you or a loved one been involved in a Las Vegas car accident and suffered injuries? At Hinds Injury Law Las Vegas, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll accidents can take on your life. 

To ensure you get the most out of your settlement, our knowledgeable injury attorneys can address your questions and take on the insurance company representing the irresponsible driver. For a free consultation, contact our law firm at (702) 940-1234 or use our online form.