Steps to Take Immediately After an Accident

Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere. Whether you are involved in a car crash, slip and fall, or other type of incident, those first few moments after an accident are crucial. Taking the right steps can make all the difference in protecting your health and legal rights. At The Law Offices of Keith Bregoff, we have guided countless accident victims through this challenging process. Here are the key steps you should take immediately after an accident:

• Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your top priority after any accident is the health and safety of yourself and others involved. Take a moment to catch your breath and assess the situation. Are you or anyone else in pain? Is there visible damage or injury? If so, call 911 right away to request emergency medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, it is best to get checked out by professionals. Let the dispatchers know if anyone is unconscious, bleeding heavily, or displaying other severe symptoms.

If you do not need emergency transport, you should still see a doctor as soon as possible after leaving the scene. This will help document your injuries and start a paper trail linking them to the accident. Keep copies of all medical reports and bills.

• Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you are able to do so safely, collect evidence before you leave the accident scene. This fresh evidence can disappear or degrade over time. Use your phone to take photos and videos from multiple angles. Capture shots of:

• Vehicle damage and position
• Your injuries
• The surrounding area, road conditions, and weather
• Traffic signs and signals

• Exchange Information

After checking for injuries, exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved. You will need their:

• Name
• Phone number
• Address
• Insurance carrier
• Policy number
• Driver’s license number
• License plate number

Do not admit fault or apologize during this exchange, as it could be used against you later. Simply state the facts as you observe them. If the other party is hostile or leaves without providing information, do not force confrontation. Write down what details you can gather on your own, like their physical description and vehicle make/model/color.

• Locate Witnesses

Memories can fade quickly after a chaotic event like an accident. That is why it is important to identify and speak to witnesses in the immediate aftermath. Look for bystanders, other drivers, or nearby residents/workers who may have seen what happened. Ask if they would be willing to provide a statement, and get their contact details in case your attorney needs to follow up. Witness testimony can provide valuable evidence to support your legal case down the road.

• Call an Experienced Accident Attorney

One of the most important calls you can make after an accident is to an experienced personal injury lawyer. Accident laws are complicated, and insurance companies will try to settle quickly or deny liability. Calling an attorney early allows them to handle all communication with the insurers on your behalf. They can advise you on the best path forward and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

No one expects to be in an accident, but we all have the power to be prepared. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, do not hesitate to call the Law Offices of Keith Bregoff at (772) 492-8967 for a consultation. We are here to be your advocates during this difficult time.