You just got in a car crash. What now?
1. Check yourself! Just like when you are in an airplane and they say, “Put your mask on before you help others.” It’s the same thing. Do a physical check of yourself to make sure you are “okay.” Meaning that you are able to walk around and don’t need absolute immediate medical attention. You know that red line more than anyone else. I’ve represented clients where they couldn’t move after a car crash. If, God forbid, you find yourself in that situation, call 911 if you’re able to. If not, wait for EMS.
2. After you do your self check, call 911. Police need to show up and do an investigation. That is a vital step that is skipped sometimes due to the person that hit you saying something like, “Let’s just deal with it between us.” I, myself have literally been offered that. I’m glad that I ignored them because that person was uninsured and had a warrant for their arrest. Luckily, they did stay at the scene of the crash until the cops showed up. Leaving the scene of a crash is a felony in Texas.
3. If it’s safe to get out of your vehicle and walk around, take photos and videos of the scene. The more, the better. Obviously be safe while doing so. I’ve had clients give me footage of them interviewing witnesses of the crash and that saved the claim from being a years long litigation battle. It was shortened because the witness statements cleared up liability for the claim to the adjuster. Being able to show videos and photos of what happened is key to the process.
4. Talk to the investigating officer at the scene if you’re able to. If there are multiple officers at the scene, make sure to ask who is investigating and writing the report. This is because you need your side of the story in the police report. Officers are trained to speak to everyone but sometimes that doesn’t happen. Make sure to speak to the investigating officer, not just any officer.
5. Get the pink or yellow sheet from the investigating officer. This should, but not always, have the other person’s insurance information. At minimum it will have the investigating officer’s name, badge number, and police report.
6. Get the treatment you need. We all know that we get an adrenaline rush whenever we get into a crash. With that, we don’t immediately feel the pain, but after some time or even overnight, you may feel pain you didn’t feel at the scene. You know your body best. Get the treatment that you need when you feel that you need to.
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