After a car accident, you might be in shock. It’s easy to panic and forget what you should do. It’s important to keep calm, though, and follow the steps listed below.

1. Get to a safe place: You never want to leave the scene of an accident, but you don’t want to stay in the middle of oncoming traffic. If you can move off to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot, do so. If not, set up flares or keep your flashers on while you wait for help.
2. Assess the damages: Get out of your car and make sure everyone is okay. You’ll want to check on all the passengers in your own vehicle as well as the ones in the other. Also, take a look at the vehicles involved and check out how badly each is damaged.
3. Call the police: Now it’s time to call 911. Even in minor accidents, a police accident report can prove invaluable when you’re dealing with your car insurance or when it’s time to deal with the courts. Avoid admitting fault or blaming others while you’re at the scene.
4. Exchange information: Try to get as much information as you can, including the other driver’s and passenger’s names, their license plate number, insurance information, makes and models of their vehicle, contact information for any eyewitnesses, location of the accident, and the name and badge ID for any responding police officers.
5. Document the accident: If you have a smartphone or camera with you, be sure to take pictures of the scene. They will come in handy with your insurance and with your lawyer.
6. Seek medical attention if necessary: Your safety and health is extremely important. If you are seriously injured, this step should come first. If you can wait, complete the above steps first, and then get examined by a medical professional.
7. Call an attorney: If the accident was not your fault or you were wrongly injured, you deserve justice and need an attorney. A personal injury lawyer defends your rights and can help get the compensation you deserve.

Nearly three million people are injured in car accidents on U.S. roads every single year. If you’re involved in one, make sure you take the necessary precautions and follow the steps listed above. Our team at McManes can help bring you the justice you deserve.