No one really wants to think about getting into a car accident, but accidents do happen.  It’s better to face them head-on, and prepare yourself to handle the situation with grace.  

In addition to carrying a capable auto insurance policy, you can equip yourself with the knowledge of what to do directly after a collision.  

Take some time to read through a short synopsis of some key tips to remember after you experience a car accident, and prepare your mind to handle a challenging situation.  

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Check to see if anyone is injured

As soon as you have the ability, check everyone in the vehicle for injuries.  If the accident is bad, just lie still waiting for help to arrive. Try not to move anyone who is injured.  If there is a spinal injury, you could do more damage by moving them.  

If everyone is okay, get out of the vehicle.  You never know the extent of the mechanical damage, so it’s safer to step away from the vehicle.  

Move your vehicle to a safe space

Clear a common myth for yourself, and understand that it’s not against the law to move your vehicle to a safer spot after an accident.  You risk further injury by remaining in the path of moving traffic.  

If you can move your vehicle to the side of the road (or off of the road), then do it.  You’re only in breach of the law if you leave the scene of the crime. Moving is fine. 

Notify the local authorities of the accident

Once you’ve dealt with the initial fallout of the accident, you need to call the police.  Someone else has probably already made the call, but you can’t count on the actions of others.  Make the call, and make certain that help is on the way.  

Gather insurance information from the drivers

While you’re at the scene, you need to have a conversation with the other drivers involved in the accident.  Gather auto insurance information from each driver, as your insurance company will need the info later on down the line.  

Document the situation as well as you can

After you gather insurance information, begin documenting the accident.  Take pictures of the vehicles involved. Document the damage done, the placement of the vehicles, and the individuals involved in the accident.  

Notify your auto insurance agent 

Once you’re home safe, give your insurance agent a call.  Notify your auto insurance company as soon as possible to start the process of filing a claim for the damages with some help from the auto accident attorneys and medical bills you have to pay as a result of the accident. You may also need a rental car until you can arrange other transportation.