{"id":353031,"date":"2016-04-04T10:46:35","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:46:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/injury\/car-accidents\/car-accident-dos-and-don-ts.html"},"modified":"2023-06-28T14:37:53","modified_gmt":"2023-06-28T19:37:53","slug":"car-accident-dos-and-don-ts","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/car-accident-dos-and-don-ts.html","title":{"rendered":"Car Accident Dos and Don’ts"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Car Accident Dos and Don'ts<\/h1>\n
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\n By Ty McDuffey, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Katrina Wilson, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

If you or a loved one were involved in a car accident<\/a>, the following are some "do’s and don’ts" to help protect you or your loved one’s right to a legal remedy<\/a> for harm suffered.<\/p>\r\n

Prepare yourself by printing out this helpful pamphlet<\/a> on the first steps after an auto accident and storing it in your glove compartment.<\/p>\r\n

The DOs<\/h2>\r\n

Below, we will review the DOs to protect yourself after a car accident.<\/p>\r\n

DO Seek Medical Attention Before Doing Anything Else<\/h3>\r\n

Focus on your health and safety first. Get immediate medical attention for any injuries you sustained in the accident. Prompt treatment of injuries can help prevent complications and provide documentation for a personal injury claim.<\/p>\r\n

DO Call the Police to the Scene of the Accident<\/h3>\r\n

It is important to request a police officer to come to the scene in cases involving injuries, severe property damage, or potential crimes. Also, request a police officer in minor accidents which may have caused damage that cannot be seen by the naked eye. There may also be soft tissue injuries that are not noticeable at the time of the accident. The police report will serve as an official record of the accident. It can be valuable evidence for insurance claims or legal proceedings.<\/p>\r\n

DO Cooperate With All Law Enforcement and Emergency Personnel<\/h3>\r\n

Provide accurate and honest information to police officers, first responders, and other personnel on the scene. This will help the accident report be thorough and accurate.<\/p>\r\n

DO Get License Plate Numbers, Insurance Information, and Driver’s License Numbers<\/h3>\r\n

Record the license plate numbers of all vehicles involved in the car accident and the driver’s license numbers of the drivers. This and other insurance information is crucial for your potential legal claim.<\/p>\r\n

DO Exchange Contact Information<\/h3>\r\n

Collect the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all other drivers involved in the car accident. This will make it easier to communicate and process claims after the accident.<\/p>\r\n

DO Stay Safe on the Side of the Road<\/h3>\r\n

While waiting for help or exchanging information, stay on the side of the road. Take necessary precautions, such as using hazard lights and reflective triangles, to alert other drivers and prevent further accidents.<\/p>\r\n

DO Take Photographs<\/h3>\r\n

Use your cell phone to take photographs of:<\/p>\r\n