What To Do If You Are In An Accident?

• Be Prepared - Every motorist should keep an “accident kit” in his or her vehicle, which should at least include: Emergency Contact Numbers; Disposable Camera; Registration and Insurance Information; Flashlight and Flares and pen and paper to write down important information.  A cell phone and first aid kit are also recommended.

• Stay Put And Call For Help - If you are involved in an accident, DO NOT LEAVE THE SCENE. If you are in the middle of the road or a position of danger, pull your vehicle off to the side of the road if possible.  Your vehicle may have mechanical damage that is not apparent and it may not be safe to drive your vehicle even if everything appears to be working. Call the police and 911 for medical attention and wait for help to arrive.

• Be Safe - If your vehicle is disabled and in a position of danger, get away from it, if possible.  Be alert for gas or other flammable materials that may be leaking at the scene. If someone is injured, call for help and keep them comfortable but do not move them unless absolutely necessary.  If you have flares or safety signs, put those out at a safe distance from the accident scene.

• Remain Calm - Being involved in an accident is stressful, but it is also a time to be as cool and calm as possible. If the accident was caused by another vehicle, do not confront the driver or become angry or irrational. Call the police and let the police address any issues of fault, drunk driving or other illegal behavior.

• Gather Information - If you are able to do so following an accident, take down important information including names, addresses and phone numbers of everyone at the scene; exact location of accident; weather; license and insurance information; and all other information that may be relevant. Also make a note of any statements made at the scene by the other driver or witnesses. Use your camera to photograph the scene and all vehicles involved.

• Towing and Follow Up - Unless you have pre-identified towing companies which you know and trust, you will be at the mercy of the company that is contacted by the police or emergency personnel at the scene. Therefore, if possible, use a company you know. Make sure you know the name of the investigating police officer and where to get a copy of the police report. As soon as possible following an accident, contact your insurance company and report the accident even if you do not think your insurance company will be responsible for any damages.

• Medical Treatment - If you are injured in any manner, get appropriate medical treatment to assess all of your injuries. It is normal after an accident to want to get home and many people assume that any pain or discomfort will go away, but if you have any pain or discomfort you should be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. When considering payment for any medical treatment, initially use your existing medical or health insurance if you have it. Even if you feel that the other driver is at fault and should be responsible for all of your damages, that process may take a long time to resolve itself and you will be well advised to go ahead and let your health insurance initially pay the bills.
  
  
• Get Legal Advice - If you have been seriously injured in an accident, you will be facing a number of decision and issues which can be overwhelming and you will likely need good legal advice. If you find yourself in this situation, call Wilson, Updike & Nicely at (540) 962-4986 or (800) 948-5971 for a free consultation.