Not knowing how to handle the situation is the last thing you want after getting into a car accident. Being unprepared can cause major frustrations and can easily lead to mistakes with your case.
#1 – Keep your driver’s license, insurance card, and vehicle registration information easily accessible.
After a crash, you’ll need to provide the other party involved in the collision and/or the investigating police officer with your driver’s license and insurance information, even if you didn’t cause the accident. It’s important that you know where these documents are at all times so that you don’t spend time and energy looking for them after a collision. You may also be asked for your vehicle registration information, so it’s wise to keep that handy as well.
Keeping these documents in your organized wallet, glove compartment, or center console are some good storage options.
#2 – Get into the habit of keeping your phone fully charged.
It’s a good idea to keep a phone charger in your car and plug it in every time you get behind the wheel. Your phone is a very valuable resource after a car accident.
You’ll need to use it to take photos of the accident scene, record the other involved parties’ insurance and driver’s license information, as well as call the police to come and make an accident report. You may also need to call a tow truck if your car cannot be driven after the crash.
#3 – Keep a first aid kit easily accessible in your vehicle.
You never know what kind of injuries can arise after a car accident, so it’s a good idea to keep a basic first aid kit with you at all times. Make sure you know where it is in the car so that you can easily find it if you need it.
Certain injuries need to be addressed immediately and cannot wait for medical care. It’s critical you’re able to tend to these types of injuries right away so they do not get worse.
#4 – Have a flashlight readily accessible.
Having a flashlight in your glove compartment or center console is a good idea because you can use it to signal for help if needed. Additionally, you can use it to shatter a window if you need to escape from your vehicle.
#5 – Know what your insurance company requires of you after a crash.
Whether or not the accident is your fault, your auto insurance policy likely states that you should call and report the accident to your insurance company. Even if you don’t plan to file a claim with your own insurance company for damages, most providers want to be informed when their policyholders are involved in collisions. Read over your policy so you know what is required of you in the event of a crash.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident through no fault of your own, you may be owed compensation. Our attorneys are highly skilled in this area of the law and have helped many others in similar situations. We want to help you recover the compensation you deserve, too. Don’t hesitate to reach out with your questions right away.
Contact our office today by calling (256) 333-5000 or filling out the online contact form to get in touch with one of our skilled attorneys about the details of your case.
