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Make This Your First Call if You’ve Been in An Accident

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No one plans on being in a car accident. If it does occur, it is important to know what to do to protect yourself, your possessions, and your financial future.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the fatality rate for auto accidents declined in the first half of 2020 over the first half of 2019. The rate was down 3.3%, which is good news except that there are fewer drivers on the road. The study found that there are more deaths per mile traveled. With these statistics, all drivers need to be prepared on what to do should they be in an accident.

What to Do If You Are In a Car Accident:

Getting in a car accident is an awful experience. Knowing what to do can help alleviate some of the chaos, emotions, and confusion that go along with it. Being prepared for an accident before it happens, will make the process much easier.

According to U.S. News & World Report, here are some things you can do before you have an accident.

Be Prepared:

What you do following an accident can be critical when it comes to protecting your health, your possessions, and your financial future. Here is a step-by-step guide that will help all drivers should they be in an accident.

  • Check Yourself and Other Passengers for Injuries: Check yourself and passengers for injuries. If passengers are not severely injured, they should leave the vehicle and wait for law enforcement and paramedics in a safe area. Those with severe injuries should not be moved until medical personnel can safely do so.
  • Exchange Information With the Other Driver(s): As required by law, you should exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, email, the insurance company, and policy numbers with the other driver(s). If possible, get the make, model, and license plate number of all vehicles involved. You should also take photos of all these documents to ensure you do not have any errors in recording the info. NOTE: Do not give or ask for social security numbers.
  • See Your Doctor: Visit your physician as soon as possible. Keep in mind, a minor pain the day of the accident can turn into serious pain in the days following the accident. Medical records will become part of your insurance claim, so be sure not to leave out this step.
  • Contact Your Auto Insurance Company: You must notify your insurance company as soon as possible after an accident, so you are not liable for damages after the accident.
  • Contact a Reputable Law Firm to Represent You: Just as important as all the other steps above, having legal representation is critical in getting reimbursement and protecting yourself and your passengers in the future. Some cases go to court, so you must have a skilled lawyer representing you.

Find a Top Attorney Specializes in Car Accidents:

If you are in a car accident, an accident attorney is just a phone call away. There are legal specialists for accidents who are ready to traverse the complicated issue of car accidents. A leading Loveland car accident attorney will help guide you through the process and ensure you are protected financially and ensure that you get the medical care and reimbursement you are eligible to receive.