Car accidents happen in a split second, but the decisions you make in the moments afterward can have lasting legal and financial consequences. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, knowing what to do can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Move to Safety
Your first priority is safety. If you or anyone else has been injured, call 911 immediately. If the vehicles are
drivable and moving them won’t cause additional danger, move them out of traffic to a safe location. If you can’t move the vehicles safely, turn on your hazard lights and remain in your car with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
Step 2: Call the Police
In Oklahoma, you are required to report accidents that result in injury or significant property damage. Call
the police non-emergency line if injuries are minor, or call 911 if anyone is seriously hurt. A police report
creates an official record of the accident, which can be crucial for your insurance claim and any future legal action.
Step 3: Document the Scene
Take photos and videos of:
- All vehicle damage from multiple angles
- The overall accident scene, including road conditions, traffic signals, and landmarks
- Any visible injuries (if you’re comfortable doing so)
- The positions of vehicles after the collision
- Weather conditions at the time of the accident
These photos can serve as valuable evidence later. Obtain the other driver’s name, phone number, address, insurance information, and vehicle details. If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information as well.
Step 4: Seek Medical Attention
Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. This creates medical documentation of your injuries, which is important for any compensation claim. Be thorough in explaining all symptoms to your healthcare provider, as these records will be reviewed later.
Step 5: Report to Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company promptly to report the accident. Provide them with the basic facts, but be cautious about accepting blame or making detailed statements without legal counsel. Stick to the facts and avoid speculation about how the accident happened.
Step 6: Consult with an Attorney
If you’ve suffered significant injuries or the accident wasn’t clearly your fault, consult with a personal injury
attorney before accepting any settlement offers. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly for less than fair value. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, communicate with the insurance company on your behalf, and protect your rights.
What Not to Do
Don’t admit fault at the scene. Even if you think you caused the accident, let the police investigation
determine liability. Admissions made at the scene can be used against you later.
Don’t sign documents or settlement agreements without reviewing them carefully. Don’t accept the first settlement offer from an insurance company without consulting an attorney.
Don’t discuss the accident on social media. Anything you post can be used against you in a legal claim. Avoid discussing the accident online.
How We Can Help
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, Walsh & Franseen can help you navigate the process and fight for fair compensation. We handle all communication with insurance companies, gather evidence, and represent you in negotiations or litigation if necessary. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover money for you.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t face the insurance company alone. Contact us today for a free consultation.