What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide

September 19, 2024, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What do you do next? At Deutschmann Personal Injury Law, we’ve put together a straightforward guide to help you navigate the aftermath and protect your rights.

Check for Injuries

First things first, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Your health is the top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to get checked out by a healthcare professional to rule out any hidden issues.

Ensure Safety

If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location, out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If you can’t move your car, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.

Document the Scene

Once everyone is safe, start documenting the accident scene. Take clear photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, the accident location, and any visible injuries. This documentation will be vital for your insurance claim and any potential legal action.

Exchange Information

Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver(s). Make sure to get their names, phone numbers, addresses, take a picture of driver’s license numbers, license plates and insurance policy details. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses.

Report the Accident

Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the details and documentation you’ve collected. This step helps ensure your claim is processed efficiently.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Some injuries might not show symptoms right away. A medical professional can identify and treat any underlying issues, and your medical records will support your claim later on.

Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer

It’s essentail to consult with a personal injury lawyer if there are significant damages or injuries. They can guide you through the legal process, help with insurance claims, and ensure you get fair compensation.

Keep Records

Keep all records related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, and any correspondence with insurance companies. Organized records will make it easier for your lawyer to handle your case.

Take Away

Knowing what to do after a car accident can make a big difference in how smoothly your claim progresses. If you need help or have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at Deutschmann Personal Injury Law. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

About Deutschmann Law

Deutschmann Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.deutschmannlaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.

It is important that you review your accident benefit file with one of our experienced personal injury / car accident lawyers to ensure that you obtain access to all your benefits which include, but are limited to, things like physiotherapy, income replacement benefits, vocational retraining and home modifications.