Tennessee residents who get into car accidents might not know what to do immediately after the incident. Calling the police may be necessary.
When should you call the police after a car accident?
After a car accident, if anyone suffers injuries or there’s significant property damage, calling 911 to get the police to the scene is required by law. In addition to the police, emergency medical technicians can arrive by ambulance to assist people who have been injured.
A person can also get the name and badge number of the police officer who makes an accident report. This is valuable evidence for a personal injury claim and can help when seeking damages from the at-fault driver.
What else should you do after a car accident?
Remain at the scene of the accident and gather as much evidence as possible. You should take photos of the scene and exchange information with the other driver, including their name, address, phone number, license plate and driver’s license numbers and insurance information. Speaking with witnesses and getting their names and contact information is wise as well. You might also want to record their statements about the accident or have them write them down.
Get medical attention as soon as possible after a road accident. If you feel fine, it could just be due to adrenaline rushing through your body. Getting medically checked out can also give you documentation of your car accident injuries. You will want to gather your medical bills as well when you file a personal injury claim.
Keeping a journal is a good way to keep the events fresh in your mind. When you arrive home, write down everything you can recall happening immediately before, during and after the accident. Contact your car insurance company to inform it about the accident. Keep everything brief but to the point.