You may wonder what to do after a car accident in Washington State. Typically, motorists need to notify the police of an accident, take pictures of the damage to their vehicle, exchange contact information with other drivers, and seek medical care.
You may also need to reach out to a Tacoma car accident lawyer in the aftermath of a collision. Our team at NextLaw can provide you with specific guidance about your next steps in the aftermath of a crash.
Find out more by calling or completing our online contact form.
Notify the Police After a Motor Vehicle Collision
The Washington State Legislature requires motorists to notify the police about most car accidents. For example, you should contact the police if an accident results in property damage, injuries, or fatalities.
Telling the police about the accident can benefit you as well as allowing you to adhere to the law. The police can file an official report indicating that your accident occurred when and where you say it did, supporting a potential claim for compensation.
Wait for the Police Close to the Accident Scene
Motorists have a responsibility to stay at the scene of a car crash. Leaving the scene of your collision could result in hit-and-run charges.
However, you may not need to leave your vehicle in the middle of the road. In most situations, you can move it out of the flow of traffic. For example, you could pull it onto the shoulder or into an adjacent parking lot.
Getting out of the road can help prevent additional accidents.
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Take Pictures and Collect Contact Information
We recommend that you collect evidence after a car accident and before leaving the scene. If possible, try to get pictures of:
- The injuries you sustained in the accident
- The damage to your vehicle
- The position of all vehicles in the crash
- Any hazards that contributed to the collision
If your injuries permit, you should also collect contact information from the other driver and any witnesses. Collecting evidence can boost the strength of your claim for compensation after a crash. A personal injury lawyer can collect additional evidence.
Seek Medical Care for Your Injuries After a Crash
Are you wondering what to do after a car accident? One of the most critical steps is to seek medical treatment for any injuries you sustained. Getting medical care immediately establishes that the accident caused your injuries and can help you recover.
You may need treatment for:
- Broken bones and fractures
- A traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussion
- A back, neck, or spinal cord injury (SCI)
- Injuries to internal organs
- Second or third-degree burns
- Cuts and scrapes
If you or anyone else involved in the accident sustained a severe injury, you may need to call an ambulance. In some situations, you may also transport yourself to a hospital for treatment.
Ensure that you keep records of all the medical care you receive and the cost of your treatments.
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Notify Your Insurance of the Car Accident
You need to tell your insurance company about any motor vehicle collisions. The insurance company may start the claims process and request information about where and when the crash occurred.
We recommend against taking the blame for the collision, even with your own insurance company. Additionally, you should avoid speaking to the other driver’s insurance company. Do not provide them with a recorded statement without consulting with your attorney.
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Contact a Car Accident Attorney for Help
Finally, it’s essential that you reach out to a car accident lawyer for help after a crash. Your attorney can provide more specific suggestions about your next steps following a collision, walking you through the legal process of securing compensation.
Getting help right away makes it easier for your attorney to collect evidence. Additionally, it allows your lawyer to help you avoid common mistakes that could reduce your available compensation.
An attorney may help you secure funds to cover your:
- Current and long-term medical expenses
- Costs for repairing the damage to your vehicle
- Lost wages at work
- Diminished earning potential
- Pain and emotional suffering
Our team can assist you with an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. You can find out more about us and how we help with car accident cases with a risk-free consultation.
Learn What to Do After a Car Accident Now
Many motorists wonder what to do after a car accident in the aftermath of a collision. Our legal team at NextLaw recommends that you get your vehicle out of traffic, call the police, seek medical care, and reach out to us for legal assistance.
You should also take pictures of the scene and get contact details from all witnesses. You can discuss your next steps in more detail when you call or complete our online contact form. We’re ready to help you secure maximum damages for your losses.
Call or text 253 238 2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form