What do I do if I am in an accident?

Being in an accident is stressful and overwhelming.  If you have an accident you should:

1 – Move to a safe place if you can do so without sustaining injury or harm.
2 – Call 911
3 – Render aid to others if you are qualified to do so.
4 – Unless you need to leave in an ambulance — Stay at the scene until the police arrive.
5 – Provide your information to the police and cooperate, but do NOT give a written statement (it may be used against you in a civil or criminal case).
6 – Unless you are a doctor, do not say that you are “ok”, “fine”, or “not hurt.” (Insurance companies may use your statement to say you were not really hurt in the accident).
7 – Obtain the accident or case number from the police officer. Get the exchange form and the officer’s business card.
8 – When the police say you can leave, get medical attention immediately. (Some severe injuries may not be obvious. Let the doctors do their job.)
9 – CALL A LAWYER! (Insurance companies are in the business of making money; this means they will pay as little as possible).
10 – Let your lawyer call the insurance companies and setup your claims. They know what to say and what NOT to say.