Being involved in a car accident can be scary, costly, and, worst of all, may leave you or a loved one injured. No one plans car accidents, so when they occur, what to do next can be difficult and confusing. Do you contact a Charleston car accident lawyer no matter the severity? Do you ask for the other party's insurance information? If you're involved in a car crash, we're walking you through what to expect and do following the accident.

What Should I Do After A Car Accident?

The average driver will be in three to four car crashes in a lifetime. That doesn't suggest you'll be at fault in each of them, merely a participant. In the midst of a crash, your mind can go blank, leaving you with more questions than answers. The first and most important thing to do if you are involved in a car crash is call for emergency responders. Police and medical professionals should be dispatched to your location to check your health and document the incident.

Even if you don't feel any immediate pain, it's best to be examined by paramedics or taken to the hospital to ensure you don't have a concussion or internal injuries. Keep all documentation related to the crash, including:

• Police report
• Witness contact information (gathered by you or police)
• Medical documents
• Medical bills
• Photos of personal injuries
• Photos of damage to vehicle
• Estimates of vehicle repair

Follow the doctor's order for care, returning for follow-up visits or scheduling appointments with specialists as needed. If you refuse to follow medical care instructions carefully, the other party's insurance company may argue the injuries aren't that serious.

Crash Scene Photos

If you can, ask a witness, police officer or tow company employee to take photos of the crash if you're unable to do so. If photos can't be obtained of the incident, return to the scene, when you are well enough, to take photos of the location. It may also be possible to request photos or video from police if a traffic camera is located nearby.

Avoid Crash Conversation

While you will likely exchange insurance and contact information with the other parties involved, you'll want to avoid conversation about the crash itself. Don't put yourself in the position where you claim fault, even indirectly. Apologizing or simple statements like, “I didn't see you” or “I was trying to make the light” can be used against you to put you at fault.

Contact Pawleys Island Car Crash Lawyer

While no one wants to get involved in a legal battle with a fellow motorist, calling a trusted Pawleys Island lawyer with your car crash case may be the best move for your financial safety. The responsible party's insurance company may try to offer a minimal amount of money for your injuries and vehicle damage, or the company may not offer payment at all. Choosing a lawyer to represent you means you don't have to battle the insurance company alone and can concentrate on healing from your injuries. Contact the Hopkins Law Firm today for a consultation to review your case.