Car accidents can be very scary. They can leave you dazed and confused, or even seriously injured. You may be wondering what you should do if you’re involved in a car accident. The answer isn’t so simple, because all car accidents are different. However, a general guide you may want to follow can include any of the following steps:
- Assess your situation. Make sure you and your passengers (if applicable) are OK.
- Don’t get out of the car. You may be on a side road or you may be on a highway- whatever the situation, you should stay in your car. Sometimes drivers can find themselves in precarious situations if they encounter another driver who is irate, or if they are on a heavily congested street.
- Call for help. Call 9-1-1 to have law enforcement come to the scene of the accident. Usually an operator will ask if you are hurt and if you need an ambulance, but if they do not you can still request one. You may not feel injured, but it is still best to have someone with medical training (such as a paramedic or EMT) evaluate you.
- Exchange information. If you and the other driver are unharmed, and if the environment around you is safe, exchange information with the other driver.
- Take pictures of the accident scene and your vehicle. This can be important for any claims you may assert in the future. Also, this may be important to submit to the insurance companies.
- Relax. It is important to try and remain calm in an accident so that you can think straight and make wise choices.
If you are involved in an accident and sustained an injury, you may want to consider speaking with an attorney. An experienced personal injury attorney can assess your matter and help you understand your rights.
If you are in need of experienced legal counsel in New Jersey, please contact The Law Office of Andrew S. Maze for any criminal and personal injury matters.