By Ela Matters Staff 
Knowing what steps to take following an accident will help you keep yourself safe while also protecting the outcome of any legal or insurance processes. Being proactive and doing everything you can to protect your rights will help if you need to file any future claims related to the accident.
If you are involved in an accident in Van Nuys, make sure you follow the appropriate steps correctly. You can always reach out to a Van Nuys personal injury attorney, if applicable, especially if you are hurt or there is significant property damage.
Let’s get into it!
What Should You Do Immediately After an Accident?
Your primary concern is safety. If anyone is injured, call 9-1-1 and ask for both police and paramedics. The paramedics will provide medical care, while the police will make sure the accident scene is secured.
After ensuring everyone is alright, you should move the vehicles out of the traffic if it’s safe to do so. This acts to prevent further accidents and to ensure the scene is safer.
Provide a thorough documentation of the accident:
- Collect the contact and insurance information for all the parties involved.
- Take a picture of the damage to all the vehicles, the license plates, any injuries, and the surrounding area.
- Take notes or record what occurred while it is fresh in your memory.
- Identify and collect information from any witnesses.
Ask the police to come to the accident and make a police report. This will be helpful if you have insurance claims or legal action. You can make a request to the police for your police report when it is available later.
Why is it Important to Seek Medical Attention If You Believe You have No Injuries?
A lot of the injuries caused by accidents do not have symptoms until much later. A medical checkup will help ensure that you have not missed any hidden injuries. A checkup will create an official medical record to support any future injury claim.
Make sure to disclose all of your symptoms to the healthcare provider and to follow all of their instructions. Remember to document all treatments and keep records of your medical visits, prescriptions, and costs associated with your injury.
How Do You Protect Yourself while Dealing with Insurance Companies?
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to inform them of the accident, but do not allow them to take detailed statements until you receive some legal advice. Insurance adjusters focus on averages to reduce payouts.
Retain copies of all communication, and don’t settle anything without first consulting with a personal injury attorney. The proper legal representation can help negotiate compensation for your medical expenses and other costs attributed to the accident.
Key Takeaways
- Ensure safety and call 9-1-1 to involve police and paramedics in the accident.
- Document the scene thoroughly with pictures and witness information.
- Seek medical attention soon, even if you do not have injuries at the time.
- Contact your insurance company, but consult legal advice before providing substantive details.
Reach out to a personal injury attorney if there are injuries or disputes arising from the accident.