What Should You Do the Day After a Car Accident?
It can take a while to recover from a car accident, even a mild one. Car accidents are scary in the moment and often involve the stress of other passengers and drivers, as well as injuries. There are certain steps you need to take after an accident, such as calling 911 immediately and seeking medical attention.
What most people don’t consider, however, is what to do the following day after a car accident. It’s just as important to be proactive after an accident occurs.
Keep Up with Medical Needs
Some injuries don’t arise immediately after an accident. Neck and back pain is common after an accident due to the impact, so be sure to monitor any pain you are in and rest as necessary. If you received medical attention right after the accident, be sure to take important medications you were prescribed and complete other recommended practices, such as stretching and applying heat or cold in sensitive areas.
Check on Others Involved
If you had passengers in your vehicle at the time of the accident, be sure to check up with them to guarantee they are safe, healthy and doing the same medical precautions as listed above. If anyone is in pain or has a new pain start, be sure they seek medical attention immediately. It could be a sign of internal damage.
There may also be emotional injuries from the impact. Car wrecks are scary, so check in with your passengers. Generally, it’s not recommended that you contact the other party involved in the accident until everything (such as compensation for the damages and any legal processes that may be open) is solved.
Have Your Vehicle’s Damage Appraised
Before looking for a new car or filing a car insurance claim, have the damage to your vehicle appraised by an expert. They will be able to tell you whether your vehicle is totaled or not and how much it will cost for repairs. If the cost of repairs is less than the expense of your insurance deductible, you may not be able to file a claim—not would you. You want the cheapest option after an accident, so be sure to get a quote from a trusted source.
Call Your Insurance Company
Whether you plan on filing a claim or not, it’s important to let your insurance agent know about a wreck. This way, they can help you file a claim if needed or provide assistance in other areas.
