Car accidents can feel overwhelming—the initial shock, the adrenaline rush, the feeling of dread when you see the damage, and even the necessity of caring for any injuries can put anyone on their back foot. But if you know ahead of time what to do right after a car accident, you can equip yourself to protect your safety, rights, and future. Whether for a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, let our Dover car accident lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC tell you what you need to know.
What Should You Do at the Scene of the Accident?
In the immediate aftermath of a collision, get yourself and your vehicle to a safe location, if possible, out of the flow of traffic. Check yourself and any other victims for injuries, and call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if you do not feel injured, some internal injuries can exacerbate if left unchecked, and the official documentation from calling 911 can help you with any insurance claim or lawsuit later on.
Exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers. Take pictures of vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions, and document your experiences on a voice memo or notepad. When law enforcement shows up, cooperate with them, but avoid admitting fault.
How Do You Report an Accident in Delaware?
Delaware law requires victims to report car accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. After calling 911 to get the police to the scene, you may also need to submit a written report to the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The sooner you report the accident, the higher your chances of a beneficial insurance claim down the road. Because if you wait too long, you give the insurance adjusters room to question the seriousness of your injuries.
What Steps Should You Take with Insurance Companies?
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate details about what happened, exercise honesty, but avoid making statements that could be misinterpreted as accepting blame or speculating about the accident’s cause. Insurance adjusters need a reason to minimize your payouts as much as possible. Just stick to the facts, and consider consulting with a lawyer to handle any disputes.
When Should You Consult a Lawyer?
Even after the incident itself, the aftermath of car accidents can quickly devolve both legally and financially, especially if you need to deal with injuries, significant property damage, or disputes over fault. A competent car accident lawyer from your area can help you by protecting your rights and handling any communications with insurance companies.
On the Road to Recovery with the Dover Car Accident Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC
If you need a seasoned advocate in your corner to fight for your interests, communicate on your behalf with insurance adjusters, and protect your legal rights, trust the Dover car accident lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC. We will provide you with the dedicated legal support and peace of mind you need to move forward and demand the compensation you deserve. Call us at 302-888-1221 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Our office location in Wilmington, Delaware, proudly serves clients in Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Middletown, Delaware.