What to Do After a Minor Car Accident

There’s nothing like getting into an accident that can really ruin someone’s day. It doesn’t even have to be a big accident for it to cause a riff in what you were doing either, as you will still have to pull over, exchange information, take photographs, and make sure that your health is okay. Being in a car accident is never fun, even minor ones. It is important that you know what to do, and what not to do, when handling a minor car collision.

Many people who get injured and face financial loss because of a minor car accident, may turn to a lawyer for help in getting the money they need to recover. This is not an uncommon approach, as recruiting a legal professional can help yield the results you are looking for. If you feel like you could use some guidance and support, then consider contacting a reputable law firm near you. 

Staying Calm

It may be tempting to get upset and stressed out at the other driver. But, this will only make matters worse, and may risk the situation turning into violence. It is imperative that you keep calm and collected so that you can focus on the task at hand. Be sure to check yourself for injuries and ask if the other driver needs medical attention. 

Gather Evidence

After confirming that you and the other driver are okay, the next step is gathering evidence. Take photographs of damage to both vehicles, your visible injuries, the other driver’s injuries, and collect details from the driver. The information you will need to gather from the other driver for your insurance claim include:

• Their first and last name, as written on a driver’s license or other forms of identification. 
• The vehicle VIN number, license plate number, make/model/year, and color.
• A contact number and address. 
• Their insurance carrier name, policy number, and phone number. 
• Names of other passengers in the car (if applicable).

Photographs and video footage of the aftermath of the accident can speak volumes. This type of evidence can be very influential when your lawyer is helping you negotiate a settlement offer from the other driver’s insurance company, as photographs and video cannot be easily disputed as false. It is in your best interest to take the time to document the scene before leaving. 

Call the Police

If no one was hurt, it is still helpful to call the police so an officer can file a report of the accident. You can then get a copy of this report in the days to follow as a form of evidence. The police report will include only factual information about the collision, and how the incident occurred through the perspective of each driver. Be sure that your statement is included in the report. 

If you need help after an accident, it can be beneficial to have a car accident attorney Phoenix, AZ trusts by your side. Consider speaking with a law firm near you, so you have the support you need after a minor car accident. Contact the Saavedra Law Firm today.