If you have been in a car accident, it can be extremely overwhelming. Between gathering all the evidence, getting medical attention and figuring out how to pay for repairs—it’s easy to feel lost and overwhelmed. Additionally, there are many steps one must take after an accident that may not always seem obvious. Knowing what to do is important both for your safety and legal protection should any issues arise from the incident. Here are 7 things that everyone involved in a car accident should consider doing right away:
- Gather Evidence From the Scene
- Ensure Safety –
- Exchange Information with the other Driver
- Call the Police
- Inform your insurance company
- Seek Medical Attention
- Document
1. Gather Evidence from the Scene of the Car Accident
When it comes to a car accident, most people understand the need to get to a safety however just as crucial is gathering evidence prior to moving the vehicles. Not only can it help to determine who is liable for the damages, but it can also aid in the insurance claims process. Taking photos of both the vehicles before moving them, license plates, and the surrounding area can provide a detailed account of the scene. A photo before the vehicles move is highly recommended, to create physical evidence of what occurred.
Witness statements can also provide valuable information that can help establish liability. It’s important to gather evidence as soon as possible after the accident because memories can fade and evidence can become lost or altered. By taking the necessary steps to gather evidence, you can help to ensure that your rights are protected and that you are fairly compensated for any damages or injuries sustained.
2. Ensure Safety after Your Car Accident
It goes without saying that one of the most important priorities after a car accident is safety. Moving your vehicle to a safe location is crucial both for your own safety and the safety of other drivers on the road. Liability for an accident can be determined based on the location of the collision, so it is important to stay calm and make careful decisions when moving your vehicle to a safe spot. Pulling over to the side of the road or finding a nearby parking lot are both viable options for relocating your car. By taking the necessary steps to move your vehicle to a safe location, you not only ensure everyone’s safety but also take a crucial step in resolving the aftermath of a car accident.
If your vehicle cannot move, it is essential you call the police as soon as possible.
3. Exchange Information
Car accidents are often a stressful and overwhelming situation, however it’s crucial to exchange information with the other driver involved. Exchanging information such as names, phone numbers, insurance information, and vehicle make and model can help determine liability in the accident. This information is essential for insurance claims, police reports, and potential legal action.
Failing to exchange information can cause unnecessary complications in resolving the aftermath of the accident. Additionally, exchanging information can help ensure that all parties involved are held accountable for their actions. Remember, exchanging information is both a common courtesy and plays a significant role in the safe and efficient resolution of a car accident.
4. Call for Help
If you find yourself in a car accident, it’s important to stay calm and assess the situation. If there are any injuries, call for medical assistance immediately. Once any necessary medical attention has been addressed, it is important to call the police to report the accident. This might seem unnecessary if the accident seems minor, but it’s important to document the incident for legal liability purposes.
A common misunderstanding is that there is no need to report an accident if the vehicles have damage of less than $2,000. In Alberta, drivers are required by law to report all accidents that result in injury, death, or damage of $2,000 or more to the police. If anyone has suffered even a minor injury, you have a legal obligation to report the accident to the police.
Reporting an accident also helps to establish who is at fault, which can affect insurance claims and legal proceedings. Remember, it is always advisable to call the police and report the accident, no matter how minor it may seem.
5. Inform your Insurer
After making sure everyone involved in the accident is okay, the next thing you should do is notify your insurance company of the incident as soon as possible. This is important because your insurance company needs to be aware of the accident, regardless of who is at fault or the extent of damages incurred. In the province of Alberta, the government requires all insurers to provide Section B benefits which will help pay for medical treatment. Regardless of fault, you are entitled to receive treatment coverage. You can read more about Section B here.
Alerting your insurer early can also help you establish liability and determine what type of coverage you may need. By law, all drivers are required to carry liability insurance, which can help cover damages, however you may have additional coverage under your policy. By keeping your insurance company informed, you can be sure that your interests are protected and any claims can be processed efficiently and fairly.
6. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A minor injury can quickly become a major issue if left untreated. While it may feel mild today, imagine if it was going to remain as is for the rest of your life. Even a 1/10 pain can become burdensome over a lifetime.
Not only does seeking medical attention improve your chances of recovering, it’s also important from a legal perspective. Liability can become an issue if you neglect to seek medical attention for injuries that may worsen over time. Seeking medical attention allows you to document any injuries sustained, which can be valuable if you decide to pursue a claim. Remember, taking care of yourself after a car accident is not just about physical health, but also protecting yourself legally.
7. Document
In the wake of a car accident, it can be overwhelming to try to keep track of all of the resulting expenses and losses. Not only are you dealing with physical injuries and emotional trauma, but you may also be facing financial stress and uncertainty. That’s where documenting your wage loss, injuries, pain, and out of pocket costs can be incredibly helpful. By keeping accurate records and seeking out professional guidance, you can ensure that you are fairly compensated for your losses and that the responsible party is held accountable for their liability. If you’ve been in a car accident in Alberta, it’s important to take these steps as soon as possible to protect your rights and your future.
What Next?
Even dealing with a minor fender bender can be stressful and painful experience. Therefore, after the event, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and your family—from getting medical attention to gathering evidence from the scene to filing a police report. Following these 7 steps can help you focus on recovering without exposing yourself to legal liabilities. While taking care of all of this may seem daunting, with right support you can navigate this process without too much difficulty. If you need any assistance with insurance claims or other issues related to a car accident, feel free to call or text us at 825-413-4414 for a free consult. We wish you a speedy recovery and thank you for taking the time to read our blog post today.