If you are involved in a car accident, you may be worried about your safety. Getting medical care right away is one of the best things you can do to ensure your health. You should also follow up with the police after the accident. This helps them to keep track of your injuries.
Regardless of how minor the car crash was, it is always a good idea to get checked out by a doctor. Your injuries can worsen over time. Moreover, if your insurance company tries to offer you a quick cash settlement, it is best not to take it. It may not cover all of your damages. A lawyer is a good option to help protect your rights.
When an accident is minor, you do not have to go to the police. However, it is a good idea to gather all the necessary information and have a copy of the police report. Also, you may want to take pictures of the accident scene. The police report will also help you make a claim.
If you were a passenger in the other vehicle, you should be sure to ask the other driver to move his or her car. While this may seem like a simple task, it is important to do so only if your safety is not at risk. Once the other driver agrees to move his or her vehicle, do not move yours. Leaving your vehicle behind can expose you to further injuries.
Calling a doctor will not only help you to determine your health, but it can also provide valuable evidence in the event of a lawsuit. It will allow the doctor to detect any hidden, progressive injuries. Some injuries are hard to find in the early days following the crash. For example, internal bleeding can lead to organ failure. Similarly, a deep gashe could be susceptible to serious infection.
In the case of a catastrophic injury, such as a traumatic brain injury or paralysis, you should call the doctor immediately. In addition, you should be careful not to move an unconscious person or immobile car. Moving a car can cause further injuries, such as a broken neck or back.
It is also important to exchange insurance information with the other drivers. The driver who was rear-ended may be liable for the damage. Make sure to have the other driver’s license and registration information available. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible.
After you are involved in a car crash, it is a good idea to get contact information from all witnesses. Whether they are a police officer or another driver, you can ask them to collect their contact information and write down important details. Ideally, you will need the information before you leave the scene.
In some states, you must file an auto injury lawsuit within three years of the accident. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver. But, if you wait too long, you may not be able to obtain the money you deserve.