Auto accidents are always unexpected and often chaotic. The seven tips below can help you stay calm after you’re injured in a car wreck.

1. Stop and Stay on the Scene

After an auto accident, it’s important to stop and stay on the scene — no matter how minor the collision seems. Failure to stop may constitute a hit-and-run, and anyone who’s driving a vehicle could face criminal charges.

2. Assess the Scene

After an auto accident, assess the situation and your surroundings. Try to determine whether anyone’s been injured, or if any cars involved are in dangerous locations. If the accident took place in a hazardous area, consider moving your vehicle to avoid another collision. However, if someone sustains a serious injury, wait for medical assistance to arrive first.

3. Call Police to Report the Accident

Call 911 right away after an automobile accident to get help. Police will arrive at the scene to fill out an accident report and, if needed, dispatch medical care. When the police arrive, write down the following information for future reference: Officers’ names Officers’ badge numbers Officers’ phone numbers Police auto accident report number

4. Get Medical Attention for Injuries

If an auto accident injury occurs, get on-scene medical treatment. Paramedics can care for minor injuries and determine if any further treatment is needed. It’s critical to track any relevant medical care received after your collision in case any questions arise from your lawyer or insurance company.

5. Take Photos

Having photo evidence after a car crash is beneficial for insurance claims and auto accident injury cases. Photo evidence should include: Damage to all vehicles involved Your surroundings Intersections Traffic signs Any severe or minor injuries

6. Exchange Information

If you’re in an accident and police don’t come, it’s up to you to exchange information with the other driver. Be sure to get the names, addresses and telephone numbers of all individuals and bystanders involved with the accident. Exchange information (i.e., insurance company name, policy number and insured driver’s name). You also need the other vehicle’s license plate number, make and model. If the police file an accident report, ask for a copy to keep on hand in case any disputes surface.

7. Contact a Lawyer

If another driver’s negligence caused your car accident injury, contact a lawyer right away. An attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf while you recover from your injuries. A lawyer can also ensure the insurance company treats you fairly and pays you the compensation you deserve. Lawyers work on contingency, which means they only get paid when your injury claim wins. Our free case review can match you with the closest lawyer available in your area. Then, that lawyer provides a free consultation to determine if you have a valid compensation claim against the other driver(s).