When you have just experienced an ordeal like a car accident, it can be hard to think of the next steps. Gathering your thoughts is difficult, but when you have, there are a few things that you should remember. Keep these steps in mind so that if the unimaginable happens, you’re prepared.
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Remain Calm
Even if the accident was severe, it is vital that you stay as calm as you can. This will help you to make better decisions and take stock of the situation. Make sure you and any passengers are not seriously injured and are safe. Turn off your engine and turn on your hazard lights.
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Call 911
Whether there are injuries or not, call and wait for the police to arrive. Reporting a collision is a responsible act for all parties involved, and it may support your claim at a later date. Some insurance companies also make this a mandatory action for following up claims.
Remain Calm
We always recommend that you do not admit any fault concerning the accident at this stage. Of course, you should cooperate with the police but refrain from entering a heated conversation with the other parties. Emotions are particularly heightened after an accident which is why it is essential that you also stay calm at this stage.
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The information you should be exchanging is as follows:
- Full name, address, and phone number
- Driver’s license number and plate number
- The insurance company and policy number if they have it
- Location of the accident
- As many details of all vehicles as possible
Take Pictures
Take a lot of pictures of the scene, the area, where the cars involved approached from as well as images of the damage. You should try to get photos from all angles to be as thorough as possible. This will help your insurance company as well as your car accident lawyer in Boston, should you need one.
Get Other Necessary Information
Details of the police report number as well as the officers at the scene will be of use when making a claim. This is also where you should obtain the details of witnesses and passengers of all parties.
Contact Your Insurance Company
If you can try to remember to contact your insurance company while you are still at the scene. This is a good way of making sure you have everything they need. Only give them details of who was involved and the place, time, and date of the accident at this stage. Before you provide any further information, it is important to contact a car accident lawyer to get legal advice first. This can stop you from giving unnecessary information that can be used against your claim.
It can be challenging to remember all the above at the time. If you forget there and then, don’t worry. The most important thing to remember is to stay calm and remain safe.
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