Car accidents range from minor inconveniences to terrifying disasters. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the US suffered 42,915 traffic fatalities in 2021. Additionally, the National Safety Council estimates that crashes in 2020 cost Americans $474 billion.
To mitigate these damages, you need to have a plan of action. See below for the basic steps you should take after a car accident.
Call the police
The safety of you and your passengers should be the priority. Call 911 right away if anyone suffers an injury. Virginia requires you to call the police after any accident resulting in a death, injury or property damage of at least $1,500. The police will help by creating a report that your insurance company can reference later.
Exchange information
Talk to the other driver and exchange information. Do not talk about who caused the accident. Get their name, phone number and insurance information. Again, do not discuss the details of the accident. Any admission of guilt, even saying you are sorry, might affect your ability to receive compensation.
Take pictures
Take pictures of the accident. This includes your car, the other driver’s car, the other driver’s license plate and anything that might have caused the crash. Take down any notes about the incident because you might forget a detail later.
Be careful with insurance adjusters
Insurance companies want to make a profit. Decline to make any statements to the other driver’s insurance and keep any conversation with your provider to basic facts.
The appropriate actions after a motor vehicle accident will give you a better chance of financial and physical recovery. Have a plan, and stick to it.