Unexpected Things That Happen After a Car Collision

You’ve been in a car accident. How do you handle it? You may know the basics about what to do after a collision, but unexpected factors may come into play. Be ready!

You’re Too Weirded-out to Know What to Do Next

Even if you’ve done this before, even if you’ve read instructions on how to get through a situation like this, you could panic or go into shock. Just remember to call for emergency help if you need it. Then call the police to make a report.

Sit down, take a deep breath. Once you’re waiting, it’ll give you some time to think about your next steps, which should include exchanging information and taking documentation. Just don’t leave the scene.

You’re Too Shaken Up to Think About Safety

One of the first things you do when you have a collision is pull over to the side of the road and exchange information with the other party, right? Well, what if there’s no good place to pull over, and you find yourself blocking traffic?

In this situation, it’s easy to forget that cars coming from behind may not see you, and may add to your collision woes. Do not stand between or behind cars, even when they’re stopped. A car coming from behind who doesn’t see what’s happening can easily bump into you, or push a car into you. Use hazard lights and cones if you have them.

You're Tempted to Admit Fault & Settle Things Right There

Do not admit fault while on the scene. It’s better to let the experts figure it out, even if you think the situation is cut and dried. Other issues might come to light that make it less possible that you were the culprit.

An admission of guilt may be harmful in a court case, if there is one. Don’t negotiate with the other driver, because if the accident turns out to be more serious than it appears, or if fraud is involved, you’ll be in a difficult situation. Let professionals handle the details, and be patient. Call in the police so there’s a record. Protect yourself.

Another Driver’s Insurance Company Calls You First.

If at all possible, be the one to take action immediately. Call your insurance agent and explain the facts, then call the other person’s insurance first and file a claim with them. if you allow the other person to take control, you may get a settlement offer that doesn’t cover all your needs.

Do not discuss the accident with the other party’s insurance agent until you have talked to yours. Get an estimate on fixing your car, find out how much your medical bills will cost, and then let them negotiate.

You Start to Feel Pain or Discomfort in a Part of Your Body Days, Weeks, or Even Months Later

Depending on the type and severity of the injury, you might not feel it right away. This is why it is important to get yourself checked out by a doctor immediately following a car collision. Even if you look and feel fine, you may not experience symptoms until much later. You may not even be able to connect such injuries to the car accident in question if you don’t consult a doctor early on in the process.

It’s never fun to have an accident, and you can’t always know how you’re going to react till you’re in that situation. You also don’t know how the other motorist will act. But you can take steps to protect yourself no matter what happens. Remember that, and you’ll be fine.