Car accidents can happen in Grand Rapids almost anywhere. With busy downtown streets and highways like I-196 and US-131, the likelihood of witnessing even a minor accident is high. The most natural response to an accident is high levels of stress and confusion. Getting your stress levels down, so you can regroup when you’re in the right headspace should be your priority.
Once the initial shock has worn off, protection mode should activate. Protecting your health, finances, and legal rights should now be at the forefront of your mind. Luckily, just knowing exactly what to do once you experience a car accident can make a major difference in both your own recovery and your legal claim.
Check for Injuries and Call 9-1-1
Checking yourself and those around you is the ultimate first thing to do when you experience an accident. If you notice anyone is hurt or if your vehicles are blocking traffic, 9-1-1 should be your first instinct. Even if the accident seems minor and off to the side, calling the police is important when it comes to documentation. Insurance companies tend to look negatively upon accidents that fail to get reported, which could drastically hurt your case.
Move to Safety and Exchange Information
If you can, try moving your vehicles off the main road. Staying on the shoulder or grass beside a busy street will allow other traffic to pass and lessen the risk of anymore pileups because of blocking the road.
Once this is done, make sure you exchange contact information with the other person involved in the accident. Getting things like their license plate number, insurance information, and general contact details should all be on your radar. It’s also important to avoid discussing who was at fault or issuing any kind of apology while at the scene as this can also be used against you by the insurance companies.
Document the Accident
If you have the ability, it’s a good idea to take photos at the scene. Any type of evidence that you can provide to the insurance companies could benefit your case, so try and take pictures of things like the vehicle damage, the weather/road conditions, and any skid marks or debris left on the road.
The other element to documenting the accident is getting any contact information for potential witnesses that may not have been directly involved. These are typically other drivers that were present at the time but weren’t part of the accident itself.
Report the Accident and Notify Insurance
According to Michigan law (MCL – Section 257.622), drivers must immediately report their accident to the police if it involves death, injury, or any property damage.
When it comes to reporting the accident to your insurance company, try keeping it as factual and brief as you can. While keeping this in mind, make sure you still report it to them quickly.
Michigan is also a no-fault insurance state, which means that your own insurance policy will usually be what covers your initial medical expenses until the legalities are worked through.
Mistakes to Avoid After the Accident
The most common mistakes that people make after their car accidents are failing to protect their claim. Admitting that they were at fault, giving recorded statements without legal advice, and posting about the incident on social media can all significantly weaken your claim, so it’s better to be safe than sorry and not engage with these practices.
You should also be sure to not accept a settlement before you are fully aware of your injuries and their extent.
When to Get Legal Help
You should immediately contact legal advice if you are suffering from serious injuries, are denied benefits, or if the fault is being disputed. A good lawyer will be able to handle all insurance communications while investigating the accident and recovering lost wages for you.
This is why Duff Law is here to help. With a team of highly qualified attorneys, make sure you take advantage of inquiring about your case surrounding your car accident as soon as possible.