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What to Do After a Car Accident

Each year, about three million motorists are injured in auto accidents. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the cost of these non-fatal injuries exceeds $75 billion annually. The most common causes of accidents include:

  • Drunk or distracted drivers
  • Poor signage
  • Obstacles on the road
  • Bad weather

If you are involved in a car accident, there are steps you should take immediately so you have the best outcome possible. An easy way to remember these is as the five “T”s. For additional guidance, contact a Merrillville car accident attorney right away. 

TRY to Remain Calm

The first and most important “T” is TRY to remain calm. It might not be easy, but it can mean the difference between safety and injury in the moments immediately following impact. Take slow, deep breaths and tune in to your surroundings. Are you upside down? Did your airbag deploy? Do you smell gasoline? Can you move your fingers and toes? As your body responds to the trauma of the accident, staying calm will help you get your bearings so you can get to safety quickly.

TOW Your Car to Safety

If your car is in harm’s way, and you are able to drive it, pull your car off to the shoulder. If you are not able to drive the car, and you are able to get out and walk, do so carefully. Put on a reflective vest and position yourself out of the flow of traffic. If you smell gas or smoke, move as far away from the car as you can. Do not worry about what might happen to the car. Your health and safety are a higher priority.

TELL Someone

As soon as you are in a safe place, call 911. Tell the police you were in an accident, and indicate whether or not you or someone else needs medical attention. If a first responder suggests that you go to the emergency room, do what they say. You are not likely to be in a state of mind to properly assess your condition. If you receive medical care of any kind, take your written records with you. These will be important later when you seek compensation for your accident.

TAKE Lots of Photos

While you are waiting for the police, take as many pictures of the scene of the accident as you possibly can. Take photos of your car, any other cars involved, the driver’s licenses and insurance cards of any others involved, the surrounding traffic lights, road conditions, or any other factors that might have contributed to the accident.

TALK to a Merrillville Car Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for damage to your car, lost wages, and medical bills. To ensure that you get the maximum allowed by law, call an auto accident attorney today to set up a consultation. The legal team of Arshad, Pangere & Warring LLP is ready to help, so please contact us today. 

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