The first moments after a car accident can feel overwhelming, with your mind racing and your body still in shock. You might wonder what to do after a car accident in Rhode Island, worrying that making a mistake could affect your future.
At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum, our Rhode Island car accident lawyers understand the confusion and stress you're experiencing. We've helped other accident victims protect their legal rights in the critical hours following a collision, and here, we share some suggestions of what you can do to protect your rights immediately after a crash.
What to Do After a Car Accident: Prioritize Safety and Medical Care
Your priority after any accident should be ensuring everyone's immediate safety. Move your vehicle to the shoulder or a safe location away from traffic if possible. Turn on your hazard lights and set up emergency flares or reflective triangles if you have them.
Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention promptly. The surge of adrenaline after an accident can mask injury symptoms, and some severe conditions may not show immediate symptoms. A medical evaluation may create documentation linking your injuries to the accident.
Document the Accident Scene Thoroughly
While memories are fresh and evidence is still present, gather as much information as possible about the accident. Use your smartphone to take multiple photos from different angles, ensuring you capture the entire accident scene.
Document all vehicle damage, including minor scrapes and dents. Photograph broken glass, debris patterns, and any visible injuries. These details can help accident reconstruction experts determine how the collision occurred.
Pay attention to road conditions that might have contributed to the accident. Note any missing or obscured traffic signs, malfunctioning signals, road debris, construction zones, or poor road maintenance. This information could reveal additional liable parties.
If possible, sketch a simple diagram of the accident scene showing the position of all vehicles involved. Mark street names, direction of travel, and points of impact. This visual record can help refresh your memory later.
Exchange Information Properly
Exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers, but keep conversations brief and factual. Get:
- Names and contact information of all drivers
- Insurance company names and policy numbers
- Vehicle makes, models, and license plate numbers
- Contact details for any witnesses
Avoid discussing fault or making statements about your injuries. Even saying "I'm fine" could be used against you later if injuries develop.
Ask witnesses what they saw and get their permission to contact them later. Their accounts could prove invaluable in supporting your version of events.
Report the Accident Appropriately
Call the police to report the accident. Rhode Island law requires reporting accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. The responding officer will create an official accident report, which can be crucial for your claim.
Request the responding officer's name and badge number and ask how to obtain a copy of the accident report. This report will contain important details about the crash, including the officer's observations and any citations issued.
Additionally, contact your insurance company to report the accident. You can give the date, time, and location of the accident. However, you should not speculate about the accident’s cause or potential liability.
Why to Contact an Experienced Rhode Island Car Accident Lawyer
Before speaking with insurance adjusters or accepting any settlement offers, consult a qualified car accident lawyer to learn what to do after a car accident. At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum, we can help protect your rights and ensure you don't inadvertently damage your compensation claim.
Our car accident lawyers will handle communications with insurance companies, gather additional evidence, and work with medical experts to understand the full extent of your injuries. We'll fight to secure fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
