Auto accidents can be a traumatic experience, so it’s normal to be disoriented and unsure of what to do next. If you're involved in an accident, what you do immediately after an accident can have a significant impact on your ability to collect compensation later. Below are a few essential steps to take after a car crash.

What to Do After an Auto Accident

1. Check for Injuries

The first thing you should do after an accident is to check for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 as soon as possible. Even if no one is visibly hurt, it's still a good idea to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or a concussion, may take several days to fully develop.

2. Document the Scene

Contact the police so they can come and make a report. Then, start documenting the scene carefully. Take photos of any damage to the vehicles involved, as well as any skid marks or debris on the road.

If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information and a description of what they saw. Any evidence you collect can help your attorney prove who was responsible for the car crash.

3. Keep Detailed Records

As you recover from your injuries, keep detailed records of all medical treatments and expenses related to the accident. This includes doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any other related expenses.

Your attorney may also recommend keeping a journal of your pain, discomfort, and emotional distress. A contemporaneous account of your experiences can help establish the full extent of your losses.

4. Avoid Speaking to the Insurance Company

The other driver's insurance company may contact you with a settlement offer before you’re even released from the hospital. Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to settle for less than the full amount of damages, so this initial settlement likely won’t cover your losses.

Accepting an offer means giving up the chance to seek further compensation if your medical costs increase. The best approach is to avoid speaking with the insurer at all and referring all inquiries to your personal injury attorney.

If you’ve been injured in a car crash in Lake Havasu or Bullhead City, Knochel Knochel & Darus will fight to protect your rights. Since 1982, they’ve been representing accident victims throughout the area and pride themselves on providing caring, compassionate, effective service. Visit their website for more on their personal injury services, or call (928) 680-1181 to speak to an attorney in Lake Havasu. To schedule a consultation at their Bullhead City location, call (928) 444-1000.