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What should I do and not do after a car accident?

Being in a car accident can be shocking and confusing. Even a small fender-bender can be jarring, let alone a major crash involving several cars. In the immediate moments after an accident, you may be left stunned, wondering what actions you should take.

Here are the things that you should and shouldn’t do after a car accident.

Do:

· In the immediate aftermath, your health should be your first priority. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.

· If the crash is major, call the police to the scene.

· Get the license plate numbers, names, contact information, and insurance information of every party involved in the accident and of any potential witnesses.

· Contact your car and health insurance providers with details about the crash.

· Photograph the scene of the accident, including your vehicle, the other vehicles, your injuries, and any property damage.

· Keep a record of any work that you miss because of the accident and its resultant medical appointments. Also keep track of how you feel physically and emotionally because of the crash.

· Contact a qualified attorney in your area.

Don’t

· Move your vehicle before you have taken pictures of the accident, unless it is necessary to move it for traffic safety.

· Hover too close to the scene of the crash if it is dangerous and has heavy traffic.

· Leave the accident scene until you have all the necessary information from the other drivers and the police have given you the go-ahead.

· Throw away potential evidence. Keep things like torn clothing and damaged car parts.

· Discuss fault. It can be considered evidence that you were at fault for the crash if you apologize to the other party.

· Agree to any settlement terms from your insurer or the other party’s representative without contacting an experienced attorney who has dealt with car crashes.

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