Being in a car accident is a jarring and stressful experience.
In the immediate aftermath, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of what to do next.
The actions you take in the minutes and hours following a collision are crucial for your health, safety, and any potential legal claims you may have.
At Wesbrooks Law, we understand how critical these first moments are. To help you navigate this difficult situation, we’ve created the ultimate checklist of seven things you should do immediately after a car accident in Arizona.
1. Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries
Your immediate priority is the well-being of everyone involved. Before doing anything else, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately and request medical assistance. Do not attempt to move someone who is seriously injured unless their current location puts them in imminent danger, such as a fire.
2. Move to a Safe Location
If the accident is minor and there are no serious injuries, it’s important to move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic. Pull over to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. This prevents further accidents and keeps you safe from oncoming traffic. If your vehicle cannot be moved, turn on your hazard lights to make it as visible as possible.
3. Call the Police and Report the Accident
Even for minor accidents, it is essential to file a police report. A police report is an official, unbiased account of the incident and serves as a critical piece of evidence. When the police arrive, be cooperative and state the facts of what happened clearly and calmly. Avoid admitting fault or placing blame on the other driver; simply describe the events as you remember them.
4. Exchange Information
Politely exchange the following information with the other driver(s) involved:
- Full Name and Contact Information: Phone number, address, and email.
- Insurance Company and Policy Number: Take a picture of their insurance card.
- Driver’s License and License Plate Number: Snap a photo for accuracy.
- Vehicle Information: The make, model, and color of their car.
If there were any witnesses, be sure to get their names and contact information as well. Their testimony can be invaluable.
5. Document the Scene Thoroughly
Your smartphone is a powerful tool in this situation. Take photos and videos of everything you can, including:
- Damage to all vehicles involved from multiple angles.
- The license plates of the vehicles.
- The accident scene as a whole, including traffic signs, road conditions, and any skid marks.
- Any visible injuries you have sustained.
Jot down notes about what happened while it’s fresh in your mind. Write down the date, time, location, and a detailed description of how the accident occurred.
6. Seek Medical Attention
Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent. Adrenaline can mask pain in the hours following an accident. It is crucial to get a medical evaluation from a doctor or an urgent care facility as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. This creates a medical record that links any injuries to the accident, which is vital for a personal injury claim.
7. Report the Accident, But Be Careful What You Say
You should report the accident to your own insurance company promptly. However, when speaking to any insurance representative—yours or the other driver’s—stick to the facts. Do not give a recorded statement, admit fault, or downplay your injuries. Insurance adjusters are trained to use your words to minimize or deny your claim. Before you agree to any settlement or sign any documents, it is wise to speak with an experienced attorney.
Contact an Arizona Personal Injury Attorney
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be complicated, especially when dealing with insurance companies. Protecting your rights is our top priority at Wesbrooks Law. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, handle communications with insurers, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
If you have been injured in a car accident, contact Wesbrooks Law today for a free consultation. Call us at (602) 262-4357 or visit our contact page at wesbrookslaw.com/contact-us
Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.
