Minor accidents like rear-end collisions happen every day in Ohio, but if you are ever involved in one, would you know what to do?
If you have no serious injuries, any information you can gather about the accident will be helpful when the time comes to submit a claim for insurance compensation.
First calls
Before you do anything else, check yourself and others for injuries. If there is even a minor complaint like nausea or dizziness, call 911 to summon medical personnel. You should also call the police and report the accident. When they arrive at the scene, cooperate by answering their questions, but refrain from expressing your opinion concerning who is at fault. Let the law enforcement officer judge the event and what may have happened. While you wait for the police to arrive, you and the other driver can exchange auto insurance information.
Record details
Jot down the pertinent details about the crash:
- The location of the accident, including any markers like street signs
- Weather information
- Which way you were traveling, and which way the other driver was traveling
- Name and contact information of the other driver
- License plate numbers
- Name and badge number of the responding law enforcement officer
Take pictures
Your cell phone will be useful in taking photos of the crash scene and the damage to vehicles. Snap images from different angles.
Seek medical attention
Finally, you may feel fine following a fender bender, but you should still see a doctor promptly. Bear in mind that some symptoms may not show up right away. Those that do, like dizziness or nausea, may indicate something more serious, such as a concussion. After your examination, the physician will write up a medical report, which links any injuries you may have to the car crash. This will be important information to give to your attorney, along with the police report and the notes you took. In turn, your attorney will use the information to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you receive a full and fair settlement to cover your medical costs and more.
