7 Things to Do After a Car Accident

At Elk & Elk, we see how motor vehicle accidents affect the injured and their families every day. We encourage you to follow these steps to help protect your rights and improve any legal claims following a collision:
Auto Accident

  1. Stay at the scene.
    Never leave the scene of an accident. Put on your emergency flashers to alert other drivers. If the accident was minor, move the vehicles off the road.
  2. Call the police.
    Request that an officer be sent to the scene. A police report is an important tool in determining which driver is legally at fault.
  3. Get medical help.
    Remember, even at slow speeds, whiplash and other injuries can occur. A medical professional should evaluate everyone at the scene. Always follow up with all recommended medical treatments.
  4. Exchange information.
    Get the names, phone numbers, addresses, drivers’ license numbers, license plate numbers and basic insurance information of every other driver involved in the accident. Talk to witnesses and get their contact information.
  5. Do not admit fault.
    It’s natural to feel bad after an accident, however, do not apologize or admit fault in any way. The police or insurance companies may use your statements against you later. Refrain making comments about the accident on Facebook, Twitter or other social media websites.
  6. Document the scene.
    Take pictures if you have a camera and can safely exit your vehicle. Be sure to include all vehicles involved and any evidence such as skid marks or debris.
  7. Call an Ohio Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney.
    If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, don’t accept a quick settlement offer. It is better to let a car accident lawyer discuss and negotiate with insurance professionals on your behalf. Furthermore, an accident may have more than one cause, and it takes the skills and resources of an experienced law firm to to aggressively protect your rights and pursue all potential sources of compensation.

Elk & Elk has a team of highly trained, experienced professionals, including lawyers, paralegals, accident reconstructionists, nurses, economists, accountants and other experts. Fill out the contact form for a free, no obligation review of your case. At Elk & Elk, you pay nothing unless we have a successful outcome.

Download and print out
our
FREE Accident Checklist to keep in your glove compartment.