Car accidents, no matter how small, can be a traumatic event, and that trauma can make it difficult to think clearly.
In the moments following a car accident, the decisions you make are vital and can make all the difference when it comes to discovering damage (to yourself, any passengers or your car) in addition to making sure everything is covered by car insurance.
To ensure that no vital steps are forgotten in the moments after your accident, it’s a good idea to keep a checklist in your wallet or glove box.
So, if you just got into a car crash in Marietta, here’s what you should do now.
What To Do After A Car Accident In Marietta
Stay on the Scene, But Move Off the Road
If no one is injured and all vehicles involved in the crash are drivable, move them out of the line of traffic.
Don’t go too far, though; you could be in serious legal trouble.
File a Police Report
If the damage totals more than $500 you will probably have to file a police report, call the police to be sure.
If the police say they’re not needed, you’re free just to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver and move on, if the police are required on the scene get a copy of the police report to submit with your insurance claim.
Document Any Damage
Immediately after the accident you should take pictures of any damage and take notes about exactly how the accident happened; get witness testimony if possible.
File an Insurance Claim
The pictures and notes you take will help your insurance company process your claim, and some companies even have apps that allow you to document your accident and file a claim without having to place a call. If your business doesn’t have an app, just give them a call to let them know that an accident has occurred.
Get an Injury Screening
See a car crash specialist within 24 hours of your accident to get screened for any injuries. Many accidents related injuries take
Many accident related injuries take the time to show symptoms but can be seen early on in a screening, and if you wait too long, the treatment of your injuries may not be covered if you are not able to prove that they were caused by the auto accident.