Even though there are many ways to keep accidents from happening, it isn’t always possible. If you get into one, you must know how to protect yourself. The things you do right after an accident will determine your experience after it. Your actions may determine your likelihood of getting compensation.
If you get into a car accident as a passenger, you may be confused and frustrated. If you are injured while someone else is driving, you may not know what to do.
Here are a few options if you have been in an accident while someone else was driving.
1. Call 911
You need to call 911 right after an accident especially if you sustained serious injuries. Even minor accidents can cause significant injuries. If the police show up to the scene, take their contact information and badge numbers. If they cannot come, report to the nearest station as soon as possible. You will need a police report when pursuing compensation.
2. Make Accurate Records
Make accurate records of the accident as soon as it happens. When the police arrive at the scene of the accident, give them accurate details of what happened.
Avoid guessing or speculating if you are unsure of the facts. When asked if you are injured while someone else is driving, avoid saying that you aren’t. Some injuries may not be apparent right after the accident. You need to seek the help of a doctor to rule out the possibility of an injury. If the other person gives out information, ensure that it is accurate as well.
If possible, take photos of your vehicle and injuries. Detailed photos will make investigations easy. If it is impossible to take photos immediately, take them as soon as you can.
3. Get Medical Help
In most cases, you need the help of a doctor to detect injuries following a car accident. The injured while someone else is driving may be impossible to detect right after an accident. Some people report pain days or weeks later. If you hit your head or lost consciousness, there is a chance that you may have a concussion. If you do not get help, it may cause behavioral or cognitive changes.
4. Contact Your Attorney
You need to protect your rights after an accident. Contacting your attorney is the simplest way to ensure that you are protected. Tulsa injury attorneys will give you legal advice and help you gather evidence. Usually, insurance providers will require a statement from you right after the accident. If you haven’t received legal advice, you may not be equipped to give the statement. Your attorney will help you get the maximum compensation.
5. Exchange Important Information
The type of information you need to exchange varies depending on your state. However, there are a few general requirements. They include the other driver’s insurance information and their name.
Gather the following information:
- The police report number
- The name and contact information of the police who wrote your report
- Witnesses’ contact information
- Personal notes to describe the accident
6. File a Claim With the Other Party’s Insurance Provider
Speak with the insurer of the other party and file your claim. You may file a claim for property damage liability or bodily injury liability. Most states require drivers to carry liability insurance. Bodily injury liability insurance covers the cost of medical expenses up to the limit after an accident. On the other hand, property damage liability may cover the cost of car repairs.
7. File a Claim Through the Driver’s Policy
You can file your claim through the insurance provider of the driver. The best way to do this is through their Personal Injury Protection or MedPay. Both of the options cover the passengers in a car after an accident.
The driver can file a claim as well, and they may be eligible for compensation regardless of who was at fault. With these insurance types, compensation is fast. Note that MedPay is not required anywhere and PIP is only required in 12 states. You can file a claim through the driver’s bodily injury insurance if they do not have MedPay or PIP.
If you have been injured while someone else is driving as a passenger, there are many ways to help yourself. The first thing to do is stop and check yourself for injuries. Call for help as soon as possible and keep accurate records of the accident. Contact your attorney and seek medical help as soon as possible. You may file a claim with the other driver’s insurance provider or your driver’s insurance for repairing the car. Working with the right attorney will increase your chances of getting all the compensation you deserve.