What Do I Do if I am in A Car Accident?

A car accident can be a difficult and emotional experience for many people. In addition to the physical and mental stress you may experience, the insurance process can become overwhelming, complicated, and time-consuming. Here are a few tips to help if you have been in a car accident. 

1. Call an Ambulance 

The first thing you should do if someone is injured or needs medical treatment is call an ambulance. If you are unsure whether you or someone else needs medical assistance, call Triple 000, and when the paramedics arrive, they will decide on the care of the injured person. They may treat you at the accident or take you to an emergency department. 

2. Report the Accident

You have a legal obligation to report your accident, which is necessary if you make a CTP (compulsory third party) claim. Contact the police and report the accident, no matter how minor the damage may seem. When speaking to the police, you may want to:

• Provide details about the accident circumstances. 
• Provide your identification and vehicle details; and 
• If possible, exchange, record, and report the third party’s identification.

Next, you will need to report the accident to your insurer. It is critical to document what happened. This way, you have a record of the accident in the event of a claim. Waiting to make a report can compromise any potential claim, be sure to report the accident as soon as practicable.

3. Take Photos, Assess Damage, Seek Treatment

If you or someone at the scene is able, take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved in the accident, and do a walk around each vehicle. Safely store the images so they are available in case of proof of the accident and for any repair estimates – they may also assist in determining liability for the accident. In addition to property damage, assess any personal damage you may have experienced, such as bruising or cuts, and take photos of these if possible. The same applies if you have any passengers.

Over the next few days, take inventory of any pain you experience and log it for your reference. You may experience pain in areas of your body once the adrenaline wears off after the initial shock of the accident. Noting any of the pain experienced immediately after the accident will be helpful when assessing your claim. You should also see a medical professional like a family doctor so they can examine and record your symptoms. Do this as soon as possible after the accident.

4. Obtain Legal Advice

It is always good practice to seek legal advice once after a Car Accident, even if you feel fine or believe the accident to be a small bump. Unknown injuries or potential insurance complications you would not have considered may pop up. With accidents, many variables will need attention, and having legal assistance gives you the best chance of examining all issues in-depth.

Speaking to a legal professional gives you certainty when dealing with insurance companies and the knowledge, so you are fully informed of your rights. A legal professional can also help ensure you do not inadvertently take a step that could put your claim in question. Our lawyers and team have the resources and skills to provide the advice you need to protect your claim and resolve it successfully.

It can be challenging to think of all the steps necessary after a car accident, but we are here to support you with this process. Contact us for a consultation. We can help you stay fully informed and in the best position to take care of your car accident claim.