Take the Proper Steps After Being Involved in a Car Accident
There are several critical actions to take immediately after an accident to ensure your safety, protect your rights, and properly document the incident. Below, we’ve outlined a detailed list of steps you should follow after an accident. In most cases, it’s imperative that you ensure everyone’s safety, contact emergency services, exchange information with the other involved parties, and document the scene with photos and notes. Our car accident chiropractor understands that you might feel overwhelmed after an automotive incident, so this helpful guide provides the necessary information to navigate this crucial process.
Being prepared can make a significant difference in the aftermath of an accident, helping you stay calm and focused during a stressful situation. Thankfully, the qualified team at Harrison Chiropractic is here to help. We invite you to browse the following section for guidance. As always, you’re welcome to contact one of our knowledgeable representatives to schedule care.
Check on All Drivers and Passengers
Before assessing property damage, make sure everyone involved in the accident is okay. Call for medical attention for anyone who needs it. If a person is unconscious or has neck or back pain, don’t move them until qualified medical help arrives, unless there is a hazard that requires moving the person immediately.
Call the Police
If there’s significant property damage, physical injury, or death, you need to call the police. Obtain the names, badge numbers, and police departments of the responding officers. Ask that a police report be filed and get the report number so that it can be picked up once it has been prepared.
Stay at the Scene
Never leave the accident scene until it’s appropriate to do so. If you leave, particularly where someone has sustained injuries or was killed, you can face serious penalties for leaving the scene.
Take Pictures
Take photographs of all vehicles involved as soon as possible after the accident. Get as many angles as you can, including pictures of skid marks, debris, and emergency vehicles if they responded. Photos can help determine how much you should be compensated for the damage to your car and can help in court. If you have photos of your car from before the accident, they can provide a strong comparison to show the true extent of the damage.
Talk to Witnesses
Ask every witness what they saw. Get their names, phone numbers, or addresses, if possible. Ask locals if they’ve ever witnessed other accidents in the same place.
Exchange Information
Get the names, phone numbers, addresses, drivers’ license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information from all drivers involved. You may take photographs of these documents instead of writing them down. If there are passengers, also obtain their names and contact information.
Always be cordial and cooperative, but do **not** apologize or admit fault at the scene. Fault is not always clear in the moment, and even a polite apology can be taken as an admission of liability.
AFTER THE ACCIDENT
Get Care Soon After The Accident
Delays in seeking care or even short gaps in treatment are among the major reasons insurance companies contest or deny settlement in personal injury cases. Even though symptoms may not appear immediately, delays as short as two days have been used to justify smaller settlement offers.
Protect yourself and your rights by getting checked as soon as possible after the accident.
At Harrison Chiropractic, we specialize in treating injuries sustained in car accidents and provide the documentation needed to receive a quick and fair settlement.
Don’t delay. Call for an appointment now. (914) 601-2225
Inform Your Insurance Company
Promptly notify your insurance company that you’ve been in an accident. Cooperate and explain what happened and the extent of any injuries. Obtain and review the police report to verify all details and determine who may have been at fault.
Get a Property Damage Valuation
Obtain an estimate for your vehicle’s damage. Many experts recommend choosing your own repair shop rather than relying solely on the insurance company’s suggested options. Some recommended shops may use non-factory parts or underestimate labor.
State laws typically allow you to repair your vehicle wherever you choose.
If the other driver’s insurance company accepts liability, they may cover the repairs, deductible, and rental car. If they deny liability, consider speaking with an attorney.
Consider Hiring an Attorney
If anyone was injured in the accident, it’s wise to consult an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help maximize your compensation or defend your rights if you’re not at fault. Many accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they’re only paid if you receive a settlement or award.
Use Caution in Discussing the Incident
Only discuss the accident with your lawyer, your insurance company, and the police. Avoid speaking with representatives from other insurance companies unless your attorney or insurer is aware and has approved the conversation.
Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers
Be cautious if an insurance company offers a quick settlement. Some injuries take days or weeks to appear. Do not settle until you are certain that all injuries have been assessed and treated, and always consult an attorney before signing anything.
Write Things Down
Document every detail related to your injuries and treatment. Note all medical providers, recommended treatments, medications, and out-of-pocket expenses.
Record any days missed from work, activities you cannot perform, levels of pain, and changes to your daily routine. These records are critical for supporting claims related to pain, suffering, or lost wages.
Contact Our Team to Request Comprehensive Chiropractic Care
If you’re in need of expert chiropractic care, particularly back pain treatment or assistance from a personal injury chiropractor, we’re here to help. Whether you’ve been in a car accident or are suffering from other injuries, our chiropractors are equipped to assist. We proudly serve residents of Harrison, NY and the surrounding communities.