Thousands of car accidents happen every year – and you can expect to be involved in at least one car accident during your lifetime. A serious car accident can lead to injuries, vehicle damage and more, becoming a major disruption in your life.
It is important to take steps to protect your rights (and your wallet) after a car accident. Here is what you should do:
1. Report the accident to the police
You should call the police immediately after a car accident. Not only are you legally required to call the police after a car accident in Tennessee, but a police report protects your rights. Failing to call the police after a car accident could have legal ramifications, such as being charged with a hit-and-run. A police report is also a crucial document that can help determine who is at fault for the accident.
2. Speak to paramedics
Paramedics should arrive at the scene of the accident. You should consider talking to paramedics and having them check you for injuries. Even if you do not feel hurt, a brief medical exam can protect you from hidden injuries and, ultimately, tie whatever injuries you do have to the wreck. Watch for delayed symptoms and pain and seek additional care as needed.
3. Take pictures of the accident
After the accident, you take pictures of the vehicles and any injuries, if you can. Pictures can be used as evidence to show how severe an accident was and the damages it caused. Try to capture not only your own vehicle, but the other vehicle, the road conditions, signs of the accident in the road (such as skid marks and debris) and traffic conditions.
4. Contact your insurer
Your insurance will need to know about the accident. An insurance claim can help cover the cost of some of your damages and financial losses, and you are probably required (per your policy) to make the report within a specific timeframe. However, make sure that you limit your conversation and report to bare facts. Do not speculate about what happened or discuss your injuries until you are sure of your condition.
Professional legal guidance can help you pursue compensation for your financial losses, and it is a wise step to take after any wreck.