Steps to Take When Injured in an Auto Accident

Being injured in an auto accident is every person’s worst nightmare.

Millions of people across the country deal with auto accidents every year. But they don’t know how to respond. The CDC reports more than 2.6 million ER visits due to car crash injuries in 2022.

That’s why it’s so important to know what to do if you’re injured.

By taking the right steps, anyone injured during an accident can protect their health and their finances. Let’s take a look at how…

What you’ll learn:

• Immediate Steps to Take After an Auto Accident
• Why Getting Medical Attention is Step Number One
• How to Document the Accident Properly
• When You Should Contact a Lawyer
• How to Deal With Insurance Companies

Immediate Steps to Take After an Auto Accident

The first moments after an accident set the tone for everything that comes next.

Essentially, there are four things that need to happen after you’ve been involved in an auto accident:

1. First, check to see if anyone is hurt. When cars collide with other cars (or with objects), it’s easy to get caught up in the vehicle damage. Take a minute to scan yourself and any passengers for injuries.

Remember: adrenaline runs high during accidents. You might not feel any pain at the scene. But that doesn’t mean serious injuries aren’t present.

2. If anyone is injured, call 911. Emergency responders will not only provide medical assistance, but they’ll file an official accident report.

That report can be used as evidence later if needed.

3. Move vehicles to a safe location. If possible, drive to the shoulder of the road. You don’t want to be stuck in the middle of traffic. However, do not leave the scene of the accident.

Leaving the scene can result in felony charges.

4. Exchange information with the other driver(s). Get names, phone numbers, insurance information, license plates… you name it.

Too many people forget this step when emotions are high.

Why Getting Medical Attention is Step Number One

This step cannot be emphasized enough…

See a doctor as soon as possible after an accident. Even if you feel perfectly fine.

Some of the most severe auto accident injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. Hours later… even days.

Whiplash and soft tissue damage, concussions, internal bleeding; they can all be lurking under the surface during that initial check for injuries.

Seeing a doctor ASAP will ensure that no injuries go unnoticed. And that medical documentation can be used as evidence if anyone injured in an accident needs to file a claim or lawsuit down the road.

Insurance companies are loaded with attorneys and adjusters. They’ll do everything they can to deny claims.

If there’s a delay between the accident date and your first doctor’s visit, they’ll use that as proof that your injuries weren’t serious.

Don’t let that happen. Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a medical professional within 24-hours of the accident.

How to Document the Accident Properly

Gathering evidence is critical to any auto accident claim.

At the scene of the accident, take pictures of everything. Use your phone. Document vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, weather conditions and any injuries.

In addition to photos, be sure to:

• Write down the police report number
• Gather the names and contact information of any witnesses
• Take screenshots of the weather that day
• Write a detailed account of what happened

Hold onto all medical bills, receipts, records and documentation related to injuries sustained in the accident. And that includes:

• Prescription medication
• Physical therapy appointments
• Follow up doctor visits
• Mileage to and from doctor’s appointments

This helps more than most people realise.

When You Should Contact a Lawyer

You should consult with a lawyer ASAP after a serious accident.

But did you know… not every accident requires a lawyer?

It’s true. If you escape a crash with nothing more than a broken tail light, there’s no need to retain legal representation.

However, if injuries were sustained; if vehicles need extensive repairs; or if the insurance company challenges the accident report, you should speak to a lawyer.

Why?

Well, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimated 39,345 traffic fatalities in 2024. Families who lose someone in a vehicle accident deal with life-altering repercussions.

On the other hand, individuals who survive debilitating accidents are often faced with mounting medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

While nothing can undo the damage from a serious crash. Legal representation can help ensure fair compensation is received to cover damages.

The best part? Most personal injury lawyers offer free, no-obligation consultations. Speak with a legal professional. It doesn’t hurt to know your options.

How to Deal With Insurance Companies

Here’s the truth…

Insurance companies do not have your best interest at heart.

Remember, insurance companies are businesses. Their goal is to pay injured victims as little money as possible.

Knowing that from the start can help you avoid common pitfalls and pressure tactics used by insurance adjusters.

The biggest mistake people make? Speaking with an insurance adjuster before talking to a lawyer.

Insurance companies will send an adjuster to “help” you. But in reality, they’re looking for loopholes to deny or reduce your claim.

Learn how to deal with insurance companies after an auto accident:

• Never accept their first settlement offer. Insurers know what stitches cost. They won’t offer a fair amount. You deserve compensation for pain and suffering too.
• Don’t sign any documents without reading them first.
• Hang onto any evidence that could prove your injuries were caused by the accident.
• Keep communication in writing. If you must speak over the phone, follow up with an email summarizing what was discussed.
• Do not admit fault. During the accident, at the scene, or in conversations with insurance adjusters.

Remember: Insurance adjusters low-ball offers on purpose.

They know people want to pay bills now and deal with the consequences later. Take them up on their first offer and you’ll never recoup what you’ve lost.

Be patient, and deal with insurance companies accordingly.

Bringing It All Together

Dealing with auto accident injuries is difficult.

But taking these steps can help you recover and protect your rights.

Recap:

• Check to see if anyone is injured. Call emergency services if necessary.
• Get medical attention ASAP, even if you feel fine.
• Document everything with photos and detailed information.
• Contact a lawyer if injuries are severe, vehicles sustained major damage, or the insurance company disputes the accident.
• Insurance companies want to minimize payouts. Be sure you’re not being low-balled.

The biggest takeaways are to act quick and stay organized. The decisions you make after an accident can impact your life for years to come.

Don’t let an accident steal your happiness. Take these steps to protect yourself and your future.