#1: Get to Safety

If the accident was minor and no one was injured, slowly and carefully pull over to the side of the road to prevent interfering with traffic flow. Turn on the emergency lights so as to prevent additional road hazards. If there are serious injuries, keep the involved vehicles in place and do not leave the scene. 

#2: Check Your Surroundings

First, check yourself and other passengers for any pain or strain. If you feel severe pain in your neck or back, do not attempt to exit the car. Rather, call 911 so that responding medics can help you out safely.

If you do not feel any serious pain and the scene is safe, carefully get out and check your car and the scene. Take care as your check for any leakage or smoke.

#3: Call the Police

Even if no one is seriously injured, call 911. The police will respond to the scene unless it was a very minor crash and no one was injured. Some insurance policies will require a police report to file a claim, so the truth can be more accurately analyzed. 

When the police arrive, provide your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. Only tell them the facts of the accident so that the police can produce an unbiased police report and so that you do not accidentally assume responsibilities.

#4: Exchange Information

Here is a list of information you must obtain from the other party:

• Full name and contact information

• Insurance company and policy number

• Driver’s license and license plate number

• Make, model, and color of vehicle

Write these down on a slip of paper or record them on your phone. Also, if there were any by-standing witnesses, get their contact information as well.

#5: Avoid Discussing Fault

When you interact with the other party, be sure to control your emotions. It can be difficult while in a state of shock, but we do not want you to deal with unnecessary legal issues because you were in an argument with the other driver or expressed that you were sorry because you thought you caused the accident. For these reasons, it is best to avoid discussing fault before fact and leave the negotiations to your insurance company and their attorneys.

#6: Document the Scene

Use words and photos to record the accident. Take photos of all four sides of the cars involved to prevent being at fault for damages that may occur after your accident. Take photos of any visible injuries. Write down any property damage. Also, capture the conditions of the day in your words. Was it sunny, icy, dark? Were you using your headlights or wipers? Finally, document any minor details on the road such as skid marks. But remember that there is an on-going police investigation, and do not interfere.

#7: Report the Accident

Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. If you are a Kansas driver, you are required to have PIP (Personal Injury Protection) as part of your policy, so your expenses resulting from the accident should be covered (up to at least $4,500) regardless of whose fault the crash was.

#8: Seek Medical Attention

As soon as possible see your family physician or go to a local emergency room. It is best to seek attention even for the most subtle pains because most people do not experience serious pain until after a couple of days. This is very important so that you do not sustain permanent damage to your spine or brain.

#9: Keep Your Files

Keep all of your accident related files and information organized. This includes receipts for all expenses involving the accident, contact information from the accident, and claims information. It also includes any documentation for evaluation(s) and/or treatment for injuries related to the accident.

#10: Call Us. Get Better!

Finally, make an appointment with us. Our clinic uses various techniques such as acupuncture, chiropractic adjustment, and physiotherapy to ensure that lasting muscle tone imbalance and any injuries can heal effectively. We are especially experienced in treating car accident patients. Please give us a call! (913)649-2044