Car accidents happen when you least expect them and can be traumatic, both physically and emotionally. If you’re involved in a crash, your actions in the minutes and hours afterward can significantly impact your health and your ability to effectively pursue your legal remedies. It is equally important to know what actions could have potentially negative effects.

Here are the most essential steps you should take after a collision in which there is vehicle damage and possible bodily injury:

• Ensure safety — Check for injuries and call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location. Otherwise, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• Obtain and exchange information — This includes other driver’s names, phone numbers, addresses and insurance information, as well as names and contact details of any witnesses.
• Document the scene — Photos can be valuable evidence. Use your smartphone to take pictures of the vehicles, visible damage, road conditions, skid marks and nearby road signs or traffic signals.
• Report the accident to police — A police report provides an objective account of the incident and support your insurance claim.
• Notify your insurance company — Be prepared to give the insurer a full account. The company likely has an online process for this purpose.
• Seek medical attention — If you have been hurt at all, go to an emergency room or trauma center. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately. An early diagnosis can be essential for your health and for supporting a claim for compensation.

The following are actions you should not take:

• Do not admit fault — It's natural to want to acknowledge some responsibility, but in Virginia, any fault on your part can defeat your right to recover legal damages.
• Do not engage in arguments — Remain calm and composed. Losing your temper can escalate the situation and potentially lead to further complications.
• Do not flee the scene — Leaving the scene of an accident if there is property damage or if someone is injured is illegal. It can draw criminal penalties and impact your civil case.
• Do not delay reporting the accident — Late reporting can cast doubt on your claim. The sooner you notify police and your insurer, the quicker the claim process can begin.
• Do not accept settlement offers — Insurance companies may offer quick settlements to try to get you to waive your right to take legal action. They are usually far less than the amounts that could be recovered in a lawsuit.

We hope you never experience a car accident, but if you do, your subsequent actions can make a significant difference. Be sure to consult with an experienced automobile accident attorney in order to protect your legal rights.

Ernest Law Group, PLC in Virginia Beach represents car accident victims in cases throughout the state. Call us at 757-289-2499 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.