Given the immediate shock of a car accident, it can be hard to understand what went wrong. Ohio is a fault state, which means that if the other driver acted forgetfully or was reckless, they are liable for your losses. If you want to sue the other driver, you have to take a few essential steps after the crash. Among other things, you may also want to contact an injury attorney in Ohio to know your claim better. Here’s what you need to do after the accident in a few steps.
- Stop and call 911. Ohio laws require drivers to stop after a car accident. Do not leave the scene, and if someone is injured, call 911 and get medical help. If you have sustained injuries, you should check with an injury doctor at the earliest without further delay. Do not ignore your injuries, regardless of how minor they seem.
- Call the police. Don’t be fooled to assume that the accident was a small fender bender and you don’t need to call the police. Wait for an investigating officer to arrive at the scene and get a copy of the police report if you can.
- Swap information with other drivers. Take contact, insurance, and license information from other drivers. The details will come in handy when you decide to file a third-party claim. Don’t engage in confrontations or admit fault to anyone.
- Take photos. You need as much information and evidence from the accident scene as possible. Take videos and photos of your injuries, damaged vehicles, and everything else that was damaged at the scene.
- Take details of witnesses. Consider finding witnesses and taking down their contact details. Witness testimonials are really useful for most auto accident cases, and you have to contact witnesses without delay.
- Note down everything. Take a piece of paper and write down all you can remember about the accident. It is okay for people to forget minute details later. Don’t make that mistake.
- Call an attorney. You have to consider calling an attorney soon after the accident. Your lawyer can gather evidence and talk to witnesses to substantiate your claim. They are also responsible for negotiating with the insurance company.
Finally, inform your insurance company. However, do not give a statement that can go against you. Before you talk to the claims adjusters or seek witness testimonies, consider hiring an attorney on your side. You can ask lawyers for a free case assessment.
