If you’ve been in a car accident in Brockton, Randolph or Stoughton, the actions you take afterwards can dramatically alter the outcome of an insurance claim. Car accidents can be traumatic and upsetting events, but our list of “dos and don’ts” below can help you manage a collision’s aftermath safely and effectively. Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do after a car crash.
What to Do After a Collision
- Before you do anything else, check for injuries. Seek medical attention if necessary.
- Contact the police for assistance if the circumstances call for it.
- Cooperate with any police or emergency personnel who arrive on the scene.
- Collect the license plate numbers of every car involved in an accident, in addition to the driver’s name, telephone number, address and insurance information.
- If you were injured by an animal attack or bite during the accident, get the name, address and license plate number of its owner.
- Write down the names, phone numbers and addresses of any potential witnesses before they leave the scene.
- Call your car, homeowner’s renters, health and/or short-term disability insurance companies when appropriate.
- Take pictures of the following as soon as possible after a collision:
- The accident scene from every angle
- The area surrounding the accident
- The animal or obstacle that caused your injuries
- Your injuries (include photos of the time it takes for them to heal)
- Property damage
- Get a property damage appraisal from two independent shops, like Collision 24, if you’re not satisfied with the property damage valuation from the insurance company.
- If needed, contact a qualified attorney in your area.
What Not to Do After a Collision
- Do not move your car after a collision, unless it’s required by law or necessary for safety.
- Don’t stand in an area with heavy traffic or safety hazards. You could put yourself at risk of additional injuries.
- Unless the police tell you it’s okay, do not leave an accident scene.
- Don’t throw away potential evidence. This could include car parts, bloodstained clothes or defective products.
- Do not stay in a burning car after an accident. Get out of the way of danger, and then call 911 from a safe area.
- Refrain from discussing who was at fault in an accident, and don’t apologize for anything. This could be considered evidence that you were at fault legally.
- If you haven’t spoken with an attorney, do not agree to settlement terms.
Call Collision 24 for Assistance After an Accident
If you’ve been in an accident in Randolph, Brockton or Stoughton, Collision 24 is here to help. Our post collision services include round-the-clock towing, glass repair, appraisals and more so that you can get your car back on the road in no time. We work with all major insurance companies, and will do everything necessary to repair your car after an accident.
If you need help after an accident, call Collision 24 at 508-586-2010. We’re conveniently located at 97 Manley Street in Brockton, MA, 02301.