A car accident can be a traumatic event for everyone involved. Auto accidents are frightening and stressful events that can result in extreme physical or psychological trauma and even death for victims. If you are ever involved in a car accident, there are certain things you can do in the following moments that can increase your chances of making a full recovery, physically, psychologically, and financially. Below are some tips to help you know what to do after a car accident.

First aid box

One of the best tips is to always keep an emergency kit in the trunk or glove box of your vehicle. A cell phone is a great way to communicate with the police after an accident. Also keep a pad of paper and a pen to document anything that needs to be written down. A disposable camera is also useful if you need to take pictures of the accident to help your insurance agent and authorities determine who was at fault for the accident. You should also keep a medical information card with any health conditions you may have in case you are injured in the accident.

Get out of the way

After your accident, if there were no injuries, you should try to move all cars involved to the side of the road to keep the road clear and prevent further accidents. Turn on your emergency or flashing lights, and if you have warning cones, flares, or triangles, use those as well.

Exchange information with other stakeholders

You should also take the information of the other person who was involved in the accident and they should take yours. Try to get names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance information, license numbers, license plates, and information about the other vehicle such as make, model, year, etc. Don’t forget to also get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.

use your camera

Use your disposable camera or cell phone camera to document the accident to the best of your ability. Take pictures of all vehicles involved, injuries sustained, and any tire marks or debris on the road. These images can serve as evidence if you later file a claim for damages.

File an accident report.

Even if the police do not respond to the incident, you should go to the police station as soon as you can file an accident report.

Know your insurance

Make sure you know all aspects of your insurance policy so there are no unpleasant surprises. Call your insurance company immediately after the accident to file a claim.

Hopefully these tips will help you know what to do after a car accident should you ever be involved in one. You should also contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Robert B. Sykes is a Utah accident lawyer who uses his 30 years of experience in personal injury cases to guide clients through the complexities of filing a claim. Mr. Sykes can help you get back on track after an accident has occurred.