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Getting into a car accident always happens unexpectedly and it can leave you a bit jarred and disoriented. If you know what to do when this happens, you can significantly change the outcome by protecting your safety and your rights. 

If you have just been in a car accident, these should be your next steps. 

Assess the Situation – And Look for Injuries

It is natural to panic and be confused after getting into a car accident in Tennessee. After all, you may have just been driving along listening to some music, or enjoying a nice conversation with your passenger when suddenly your car begins to move outside of your control. What just happened? Take a moment to assess the situation. 

Look around and determine if anyone has sustained any injuries, including yourself. First, assess those in your car and then the other individuals involved, regardless of the role they played.

If anyone is hurt, call 911 for an ambulance. Keep in mind that you may feel fine initially, but sometimes injuries do not show up right away. It is always a good idea to be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible. 

Make Safety a Priority

Safety is important immediately following a crash since it will often leave you in the middle of the roadway. 

If your vehicle is still drivable, carefully move it out of the way of traffic. Do this carefully and with your hazard lights on. If not, you may remain in your vehicle with your seatbelt on and hazard lights on until help arrives. Or, get out of your car and stand safely on the side of the road and away from traffic. 

Call For Help

Always call local authorities so that you can report the accident. It doesn’t matter how minor the accident may appear, having this information for your insurance company is essential – especially if any legal issues arise down the road. 

Again, if there are injuries, let the dispatcher know right away. 

Exchange Information With Others

As long as it is safe to do so, exchanging information with other drivers is important. This includes their full name, contact information, driver’s license number, vehicle registration information, and insurance company with policy number. 

If any witnesses who saw the accident are present, obtain their contact information, too. This may be very beneficial in the future should any legal proceedings take place. 

Document the Crash Scene

If you have your cell phone on you, document the crash scene. Take photos or videos of the entire area, including the position of the cars, the visible damage to each, the road conditions and weather, and any other pertinent details. 

Visual images of the accident site can be very valuable for the insurance claim and any legal proceedings. 

Offer Only Facts

Share your side of the story to law enforcement for the report, but stick to the facts and only answer the questions asked. Do not offer any extra information, admit fault, or speculate as to what you think may have happened. 

Additional information could be misconstrued and used against you later. 

Notify Your Insurance Company

You always want to make your insurance company aware of the accident after it happens. Initiate the claims process and be prepared to provide them with all the details. This will include a copy of the police report, the photos or videos you collected from the scene, and any other information you may have. 

Seek Legal Counsel if Needed

Seeking legal counsel after a wreck is always a great idea when there are injuries, property damage, or disputes. The expertise of a qualified car accident attorney will not only help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process but also get you the fair compensation you deserve.  

Are You the Victim of a Car Accident in Tennessee?

The experienced personal injury lawyers at Hawkins, Bingham & Miller can help. Contact us today for a free consultation.