Car accidents whether big or small can leave us shaking in our boots and our minds swirling out of control! Before we ever have a car accident we should know, the critical things that we need to do. Even having a checklist on a phone, or in the glove compartment of your car can be helpful in the midst of such an event.

Here are some important things you need to remember to do after having a car accident:

Stop. Call 911.

It is sad and unfortunate that we live in a day and time, where people will do a hit and run and be on their way. First, you should stop and get your car to a safe place. Then, examine whether anyone is injured and call 911.

Gather All Important Information

You might be able to do this even while you’re on the phone with 911. A scene of an accident can move pretty fast with individuals coming and going, and cars being towed away. The quicker you can get information like names and addresses, insurance companies, names of anyone injured the better. To realize that you have not documented all the pertinent information later, can add to the stress.

The Importance of Law-Enforcement

The law-enforcement can help regulate the situation. That is why it is important to have them come as soon as someone can get out their phones and make that call.

If anyone is injured, they are responsible for getting the emergency help needed. They know how to ask the right questions and gather evidence. In order to create a complete police report that can be used for claims. They can also help to shield off the area, from other cars and foot traffic.

Get in Touch with Your Insurance Company Immediately

By law, you are supposed to notify your insurance company of any accident that you have. Other reasons you should contact your insurance company could be delayed symptoms. Sometimes symptoms may take some hours or even a few days to appear within your body. Giving your insurance company a heads up already lets them know that this event might be continual, that needs intervention.

Also, be aware that some people are fraudulent. Some individuals might take advantage of you NOT letting your insurance company know what’s going on. They might make claims of injuries, that they may not have and receive financial benefits.

Do You Need an Attorney?

It can be an overwhelming thought to try and figure out if you indeed need to get yourself an attorney. However, depending upon the conversations you have with your insurance company, it can actually make the situation very clear.  Insurance companies are known to give their drivers a hard time and it may seem like they don’t have your best interests in mind. So, instead of driving yourself crazy trying to figure out what angle to come from to get the results you are looking for, hiring an attorney will be your best bet.

You can always get in touch with an auto accident attorney in Antelope Valley if you ever have questions on the manner.