The moments following a car accident are incredibly stressful. While thousands of California residents get into car accidents each year, the way that they respond in the immediate aftermath of those accidents is key. While auto accidents are scary, remaining calm and taking these steps is crucial.
Verify everyone’s safety
Before you do anything else following a car accident, you should make sure that you and any passengers in your car are safe. If anyone in your car has a serious injury, you shouldn’t remove them from the vehicle unless absolutely necessary, as it could lead to more significant injuries.
Get off the road
California is home to some of the largest interstates in the US, which makes getting off the road difficult. However, it’s one of the most important steps that you need to take in the moments after an accident. If your vehicle is drivable, pull onto the shoulder or into a nearby parking lot.
Call 911
If anyone in your vehicle suffered an injury, this step is even more important. Getting medical personnel to the site of your motor vehicle accident is pivotal. However, even if everyone is safe, you need to allow law enforcement officers to put together an accident report as quickly possible.
Exchanging information
Many motor vehicle accidents involve more than one vehicle. Once everyone is safe and you get your car off the road, you should exchange basic information with the other driver. This includes:
- Name
- Contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Make, model, and color of both vehicles
- Insurance information
Document everything
Assuming that you are able, you should document everything about the accident. Use your cellphone to take pictures of both vehicles. Additionally, ask the responding officer for a copy of the accident report.
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of a car accident. Drivers should be aware of these steps so they can protect themselves in the moments that follow the crash.
