The period after a car accident can be confusing and complicated, as there is a lot to do. However, a clear plan can help families navigate the situation a little bit easier, as they’ll know what to do to make sure everyone is safe moving forward. It is a good idea to speak with a lawyer about the car accident to be able to have help handling the claim. Some of the things to do after a car accident include the following.
Handle the Car Accident Claim and Seek Medical Attention
The first step should be to seek immediate medical attention for anyone injured in the car accident. It is a good idea to have a medical evaluation for everyone involved to help spot hidden injuries that are common after accidents. Once the medical attention is complete, it’s time to file the car accident claim with the insurance company. It is recommended to speak with a car accident lawyer before filing a claim, as they can help with the entire claims process. This can leave more time for the family to focus on what’s important instead of dealing with the insurance company.
Keep an Eye Out for Delayed Symptoms
It’s a good idea to keep an eye out for delayed symptoms that are common after a car accident, as these can indicate that something is wrong even if everyone seemed okay in the immediate aftermath of the accident. Look for signs of a concussion, such as headaches or fatigue, as well as signs of whiplash, such as neck pain. It’s also a good idea to look for any behavioral changes in kids or anxiety about getting in the car, as these can indicate potential trauma that may need to be addressed.
Determine if Car Seats Need to be Replaced
Before getting in the car again, it’s important to determine if the car seats need to be replaced. If the accident was minor, no one was injured, the door closest to the car seat was not damaged, and the airbags were not deployed, it’s okay to keep using the car seat. In all other cases, it is crucial to replace the car seats, as they may have internal damage and may not be safe to continue using. Insurance will typically cover the cost of a replacement car seat. Be sure to install the car seat properly so it works to protect the child if there is ever another accident.
Get the Vehicle Repaired or Replace It
Start looking into repairs or replacements for the vehicle as soon as possible. If the vehicle can be repaired, this is likely the best route to take, as it will be covered by the insurance claim. If the vehicle is totaled or can’t be repaired, it’s time to start looking for a new one. It is a good idea to look up current safety stats for vehicles to find one that will help keep everyone safer if there is another accident in the future.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, these are some of the things that should be done in the following days to help make sure everyone is able to recover and that it’s possible to move forward. Take the time to schedule a consultation with a lawyer to learn more about how they can help with your claim, so you can focus on what’s important.