The Steps You Take Right After a Car Accident Matter
A car accident can be disorienting and frightening. In the chaos of the moment, it can be hard to know what to do. But the steps you take in the minutes, hours, and days after a crash can significantly impact both your health and your ability to recover compensation.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your first priority is safety. Check yourself and all passengers for injuries. Call 911 even if injuries seem minor — a police report is important for any insurance claim. Stay at the scene until police arrive.
Step 2: Exchange Information
Exchange full name and contact information, driver’s license number, vehicle registration, and insurance company name and policy number with all drivers involved. Do not discuss fault or apologize.
Step 3: Document the Scene
Use your phone to photograph vehicle damage, the accident scene, skid marks or road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.
Step 4: Gather Witness Information
Independent witnesses can be crucial to establishing fault. If bystanders saw the accident, get their names and phone numbers before they leave the scene.
Step 5: Seek Medical Care Immediately
Even if you feel fine, see a doctor as soon as possible. Many serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and whiplash, do not produce obvious symptoms immediately. A medical record documenting injuries close in time to the accident is critical to your legal claim.
Step 6: Report to Your Insurance Company
Massachusetts is a no-fault state. Report the accident to your own insurance company promptly to access Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. Be careful about giving recorded statements without first consulting an attorney.
Step 7: Contact a Massachusetts Car Accident Attorney
Before accepting any settlement offers or signing anything from an insurance company, consult with a personal injury attorney. Call Larson Law at 508-888-8888 for a free consultation.
Results Disclaimer: Past case results, settlements, and verdicts mentioned on this website do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome in any future case. Every case is unique and depends on its own facts and legal issues.