A car accident can be stressful and overwhelming, especially when you are dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, insurance companies, and questions about what to do next. Taking the right steps after an accident can help you protect important information and better understand your options.
If you have been involved in a car accident in North Carolina, it is important to stay calm, focus on safety, document what happened, and keep records related to the accident and any injuries.
1. Get to a Safe Location
If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries.
If someone is seriously injured or there is an immediate danger, call 911 and request emergency assistance.
2. Contact the Police and Exchange Information
Contact law enforcement, particularly when the accident involves injuries, significant damage, or a hit-and-run. A police report can provide an important record of what happened.
Exchange information with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, driver’s license information, license plate numbers, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, collect their names and contact information as well.
3. Document the Accident
If it is safe to do so, take photographs of the vehicles, visible damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Write down what you remember about the accident while the details are still fresh.
Keep important records such as medical bills, repair estimates, insurance correspondence, towing expenses, and other accident-related documents. Thorough documentation can help you understand and support your claim.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company and report the accident as soon as reasonably possible. Your insurer may ask for information about when and where the accident occurred, the people involved, witnesses, injuries, and property damage.
Keep copies of your communications and documents related to the claim. If there is a disagreement about the insurance claim or the amount of compensation available, consider discussing your situation with an attorney.
5. Take Your Injuries Seriously
Some accident-related injuries may not be immediately obvious. If you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or other symptoms after a crash, seek appropriate medical attention and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Depending on the circumstances, bodily injury claims may involve medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from the accident.
When Should You Speak With a Car Accident Attorney?
If you were injured in a car accident, are facing significant medical expenses, have questions about who was responsible, or are having difficulty with an insurance claim, consider seeking legal guidance.
North Carolina’s rules regarding responsibility for accidents can have important consequences for an injury claim. The North Carolina Department of Insurance notes that contributory negligence can prevent recovery when an injured person is found to have contributed to the accident.
Henson & Henson helps individuals and families understand their legal options after a car accident. Our team can review the circumstances of your accident, explain the legal process, and help you understand the next steps that may be available to you.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every accident and legal situation is different. Please consult a qualified North Carolina attorney regarding your specific circumstances.
