More than 70,000 motor car accidents occur in Oklahoma every year. While a car accident can range in severity, even minor accidents may cause severe anxiety and stress. Yet no matter how stressed you may feel after a car accident, there are specific steps you should take.
Keep calm
Although many people immediately feel distressed in the aftermath of car accidents, remaining calm will allow you to deal with all aspects of the crash. You will make better decisions if you remain calm; panic will only increase the likelihood of injuries.
Medical treatment
Following any motor vehicle crash, you need to determine if anyone needs medical treatment. Contact 9/11 immediately if you believe anyone involved in the accident requires treatment from a medical provider. If anyone experiences a serious injury, they should move as little as possible until medical help arrives.
Moving the vehicle
Moving the vehicle out of the middle of the road keeps other oncoming traffic from becoming involved in the accident. To keep yourself and your property safe, follow these tips:
- Move your vehicle to the shoulder of the road.
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- Set up hazard cones around your vehicle if you have them.
Contact police
Contacting the police provides documentation that can be helpful when reporting the accident to your insurance company. The police will make an accident report, and most insurance companies ask for this report before they agree to any settlements.
Obtain driver and witness information
At a minimum, you should ask for the other driver’s contact information. If anyone witnessed the accident, you should obtain their information.
Information you should ask for includes:
- Names
- Phone numbers
- Vehicle make and model number
- Badge number of responding police officer
A car accident may result in prolonged legal battles. These steps may help you in future battles with insurance companies.
