It only takes a moment. One minute you’re driving down the 405, music blasting, wind in your hair, and the next, you’re pinned by momentum.
Car accidents are ugly and upsetting — and that doesn’t matter if they are big, small, or anything in between. Even the tiniest of scrapes can send your day into a spiral and tailspin. But here is the caveat — what you do after the accident can determine whether that spiral lasts longer than it should. Let’s talk about how you can make an awful situation slightly less awful.
Step One: Breathe and Stay Calm
Easier said than done; after a car accident, hearts are pounding, minds are racing, and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by what just happened. But if you take a few deep breaths, you’ll be able to calm down and think clearly. Check yourself for injuries, and then check everybody else in the car.
If everyone seems uninjured and your car is in good enough shape to run, move out of traffic, whether driving to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. You should put your hazard lights on so other people know there’s a problem and other collisions can be prevented. But, once again, your safety should be your number one priority.
Step Two: Call for Help
It might not be the worst idea to call the police, no matter how minor your accident may be. A police report on file can provide an official account of what happened, and that could be very important down the line in case there are disagreements or even legal proceedings.
Paramedics should also be called, no matter how bad the accident may be. They’ll be able to determine if there are any injuries you and your passengers may not be able to see or feel yet, such as concussions or internal bleeding.
Step Three: Document Everything
Pull out your phone and start snapping photos. Of the cars, license plates, damage, and the scene. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Get the names and numbers of witnesses. You want the facts, especially since memories are fuzzy over time.
Step Four: Don’t Admit Fault
You never know who the other driver knows, and even a sympathetic “I’m so sorry” can be misconstrued as an admission of guilt. When you talk to the other driver, the police, and the insurance companies, stick with the facts. Leave the emotions out of it.
When Legal Help Becomes Essential
Sure, an insurance company might throw you an early offer that seems OK… but turns out not to cover your actual expenses. Medical debt, lost wages, emotional damage, it all starts to add up way too fast. And that’s when you need to look to the professionals for help. Having an advocate in your corner can make all the difference in the world.
And if you’ve been hurt and you’re in Southern California, working with reputable professionals like the Van Law auto accident attorneys near Los Angeles puts you in a winning position right off the bat. Why? They’re up-to-date on all laws for your area, know what to expect from an insurance company, and will fight aggressively to get you the compensation you deserve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Delaying medical care: Some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.
- Skipping the police report: Verbal agreements often fall apart.
- Posting on social media: Photos or comments can be used against you later.
- Settling too fast: You may not yet know the full impact of your injuries.
What to Ask When Choosing a Lawyer
If you decide to seek legal help, ask a few key questions before hiring anyone:
- How much experience do you have with auto accident cases?
- Will I speak directly with my attorney?
- What’s your fee structure? Do you work on contingency?
- How do you communicate updates on my case?
Van Law’s auto accident attorneys near Los Angeles, for example, offer free consultations and don’t charge unless you win, making legal help more accessible and less stressful.
Protect Yourself Beyond the Crash
Accidents are impossible to predict. But that doesn’t mean you can’t be aware, informed, and ready. Save important phone numbers in your phone. Keep a simple kit in your glove box: bandages, light, pen, paper. Read your insurance policy, so you know what’s what before anything happens. And if the worst happens, know you’re not alone.
Take Control After the Chaos
A car wreck can ruin your day or your life. Either way, what you do next can ease some of the chaos. Try not to panic. Keep records. Call for help. And if you need it, contact a team of knowledgeable lawyers like Van Law auto accident attorneys near Los Angeles.
They’ll help handle the legal issues, so you can focus on the recovery process. Because when life knocks you down, on the road, or wherever, you deserve to have the right people in your corner.
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