7 Things You Should Do After a Car Accident

Posted on Thu Jul 01, 2021

1. Move Away from Dangerous Situations

Gasoline spilling onto the pavement, smoking vehicles, and busy oncoming traffic are examples of dangerous situations existing after a car crash. Never try to push overturned cars back onto their wheels or drive a wrecked car away from the scene. Go to a safe place and wait for the police to arrive. If your car is in the roadway, you can try to move the vehicle to a safe location, such as a parking lot or median. 

2. File and Obtain a Police Report of the Car Accident

It is always best to file a police report while at the scene. You should call the non-emergency phone number for the local police department and ask for an officer to be dispatched to the scene. The investigating officer will take statements from the drivers and witnesses. 

The investigator’s report is typically available within 72 hours of the crash. The crash report can be obtained through ALEA’s website. You will need your driver’s license number in order to obtain the crash report. (https://www.alabamainteractive.org/dps_crash_report/welcome.action). 

3. If Possible, Get Witness Contact Information

Should liability and fault be challenged, having witnesses who can provide testimony is vital to obtaining compensation. Make sure to obtain the names and contact information from any witnesses.

4. Take Pictures of EVERYTHING

If possible, take pictures of all vehicles involved in the car accident. Focus on damaged areas of the vehicles. Take pictures of road conditions, location markers, street signs, and gouge marks on the road.

5. Seek Medical Treatment for Any Injuries. 

If you have serious injuries, seek medical treatment from the nearest emergency room. If your injuries are not life-threatening, you should see your family doctor as soon as possible. From there, the emergency room or your family doctor can refer you to specialists for additional medical treatment.  

6. Do Not Sign Any Medical Release Forms

While some medical forms may need to be signed, others do not. For example, if another driver's car insurance company wants you to sign medical authorization forms--don't! You are not required to give another auto insurance company access to your lifetime medical history. In addition, if you are filing a claim, your personal injury attorney will gather the appropriate forms from your physician to pursue litigation. It is not in your best interest to sign anything, especially medical release forms, provided by the driver who is liable for the accident.

7. Schedule a Consultation Appointment with a Car Accident Lawyer

If you or someone you know has suffered physical injuries, do not talk to the at-fault driver's car insurance company before consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney. Auto insurance adjusters are trained to reduce settlement values in any way possible. Experienced car wreck lawyers know how to handle insurance adjusters to maximize compensation for injured accident victims. Call us today at 256-539-7575 for assistance in obtaining the compensation you deserve.