Each day, more than 90 people pass away in the U.S. due to a car accident. Another three million suffer some type of injury.

These statistics are shocking but illustrate the prevalence of car accidents. As a result, at some point, you may find yourself in this situation.

When this happens, it’s important to take the right steps to preserve evidence and gather information. After all, if you plan to file a personal injury claim down the road, all this information is going to be invaluable.

Keep reading to learn what to do after a car accident injury. Information is power and being informed can help you avoid making costly mistakes.

Stay Put

Regardless of what is going on, don’t leave the scene. If you do, you may be charged as a “hit and run” driver.

This type of accident has consequences and fees that are much more severe than if you stick around – even if you are at fault.

Take Steps to Protect the Scene

If you aren’t seriously injured, then it is a good idea to help prevent further accidents. A great way to do this is by setting up flares, or by turning the flashers on in each vehicle involved.

If it is dark outside, and your headlights won’t come on, then make sure to use a flashlight – even the one on your phone will do. This ensures that other drivers can see you.

Contact the Police

Even if no one has been seriously injured, it’s smart to contact the police. In some cases, you may need to file a police report in order to file a claim with your insurance company. This is true even if you just want to make a claim for the damage that occurred on your vehicle.

Also, keep the vehicles involved in place. The only time you should move them is if they are a hazard to people driving on the road.

Keep an Accurate Record

When the police arrive on the scene, be sure to let the officers know exactly what happened, the best you can. If you don’t know all the facts, make sure you relay this to the officer.

You should never try to guess, speculate, or misstate something because you are unsure. If someone asks if you are injured, and you don’t know, then say that, rather than “no.”

In many cases, the injuries and related symptoms from motor vehicle accidents become evident only after several hours or days have passed.

Take Plenty of Pictures

If you have a camera with you, or on your phone, you need to try and capture photos of all the vehicles involved. Also record damage to each car, any visible injuries, and photos of the accident scene itself.

These are the details that can be invaluable if you have to hire an attorney to help you recover compensation for the damages and injuries you suffered.

Exchange Information

In most cases, the officer that arrives at the scene is going to gather this information. If you are in a situation where the police do not respond, then it is up to you to get the name and contact information for everyone involved.

Also, make sure to get their insurance information. To do this, simply request the driver’s insurance card.

If there are any witnesses, then it is a good idea to get their contact information, as well. Doing so will ensure your attorney can contact them down the road if needed.

Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

It’s important for you to let your insurance company know what has happened as soon as you can. There are some policies that require you report the incident immediately and fully cooperate with their investigation.

Make sure to find out if you have medical benefits as a part of your coverage. While you pay extra for this, it is worth it to have.

Be Evaluated by a Doctor or Medical Professional

In many cases, injuries resulting from an auto accident aren’t immediately apparent. In fact, a large number of accident victims feel the most pain a few days after the incident.

Unless you are 100 percent sure you are uninjured, you need to seek medical attention. Either talk to the paramedic on the scene or go to the local emergency room. You can even schedule an appointment with your family physician.

Even if you are involved in an accident where the impact was minor, it can result in a serious and permanent injury to your neck or spinal cord. Also, if you were dazed or lost consciousness at any point after the collision, you may have suffered a closed head injury or concussion.

If these issues are not treated, they can result in behavioral and cognitive changes.

What to Do After a Car Accident Injury: Now You Know

Are you wondering what to do after a car accident injury? If so, the information here should help you feel a bit more informed.

Remember, no one plans to be involved in a car accident. However, when you know what to do, it can make a stressful situation a bit more bearable and help ensure you gather the information needed even when a lot is going on.

When it comes to helpful information, our team is dedicated to creating amazing blogs that provide actionable advice you can use. For example, our blog on what to expect when visiting a chiropractor can help ease the anxiety you may feel about this experience. Also, be sure to visit often as we regularly post new blogs.