Do you know what to do after a car accident? Having a car accident checklist can help you take smart, beneficial steps after a collision and set yourself up for a smoother claims process.
Why Following a Car Accident Checklist Matters
The initial 24-hour period following a car accident can heavily influence your health and your ability to recover compensation through an insurance claim or lawsuit. By following this auto accident checklist, you’ll be sure you’re doing everything that’s most necessary to protect your rights.
Immediate Steps at the Accident Scene: The First Hour
Immediately after a collision, follow this car crash checklist at the scene:
- Prioritize your safety and check yourself and others for injuries.
- Call 911 for police response and emergency services to secure medical treatment for injured people.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, the vehicles, your injuries, and the surroundings.
- Avoid saying anything that might come across as an admission of fault – even “I’m sorry.”
Understanding Virginia Accident Reporting Requirements
Under Virginia law, you must immediately report any accident resulting in injury or death to law enforcement. You may also report in writing any accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage or involving an uninsured motorist.
Reporting the accident to the police serves an important purpose. The responding officer will observe the scene, speak with the drivers involved and gather information from them (and potentially any witnesses), and prepare a written report of their findings. The official report should include basic details about the accident and the parties and vehicles involved, which can serve as a key initial piece of evidence for your injury claim.
You also have a responsibility to report the accident to your insurer. The precise deadline will depend on your policy, but a good general rule of thumb is to notify them of the collision as soon as it is reasonable for you to do so. Provide the basic facts of when and where the crash occurred, but avoid speculating on causes or fault, and do not give a recorded statement without legal representation.
What to Do in the Hours After Leaving the Scene
Once you get home, take the following steps to further protect yourself and prepare for any insurance or personal injury claim that might be in your future:
- Schedule an appointment to follow up with your doctor.
- Inform your employer if you need to miss work while you recover.
- Avoid posting on social media about the crash.
- Do not talk to insurance adjusters or accept settlement offers from the other driver’s insurance company without first meeting with an attorney.
- Contact an experienced Virginia car accident attorney to discuss your legal rights and options.
Contact a Virginia Car Accident Lawyer for Guidance
If you got hurt in a car accident, turn to D. Michael Mullori, Jr., Attorney at Law, for support. Mike Mullori has represented injured people in Northern Virginia since 1999, building a successful track record.
Reach out today or call anytime at (703) 762-2142 to get started with a free initial consultation about your car accident claim. Our office is conveniently located at 2500 Hunter Pl, Unit 102, Woodbridge, VA. We can help!
