In the moments after a car accident, things can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, the decisions you make immediately afterward can have a major impact on your health, your rights, and your ability to pursue compensation. The Halperin Law Center has helped countless Richmond residents navigate the aftermath of a crash. Here’s what we recommend you do if you find yourself in this difficult situation.
Put Safety First
Your first priority after any car accident is safety. First, check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. If your car is drivable and you’re in a dangerous location, move to a safer area to avoid additional accidents. Stay as calm as possible and avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Even saying something like “I’m sorry” can be misused later by insurance companies.
Notify the Authorities
In Virginia, car accidents with injuries or substantial property damage should be reported to the police. When officers arrive, provide clear and factual information, but don’t speculate about who caused the crash. Ask how to obtain a copy of the accident report, as it may be important for your insurance claim or a future personal injury case.
Document the Scene
If it’s safe to do so, gather as much evidence from the scene as possible. Use your phone to take photos of vehicle damage, the positions of the cars, skid marks, road signs, weather conditions, and anything else that could help paint a picture of what happened. Get the contact and insurance information of the other driver, and ask for the names and phone numbers of any witnesses. These details can be crucial later if there’s a dispute over fault.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it’s a good idea to see a doctor after a car accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. Getting prompt medical care not only protects your health, it also creates a record linking your injuries to the crash. If you delay care, the insurance company will argue that your injuries weren’t that serious or weren’t
caused by the accident.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance
Most auto insurance policies require you to report an accident to your own insurance company within a certain time frame. The sooner you report the collision to your insurance carrier, the better. Report as soon as possible. You can discuss property damage with the other driver’s insurance company if you wish, but do not give them a statement or discuss the facts.
Talk to an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
Studies show that those represented by counsel in car accidents recover far more than those who do not retain counsel. Car accidents can lead to mounting medical bills, missed work, emotional distress, and ongoing treatment needs. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, gather the evidence needed to best support your claim, and negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf. The Halperin Law Center fiercely advocates for our clients, working to recover the full compensation they deserve while they focus on healing.
Let Us Help You Move Forward
Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough—navigating the legal and insurance aftermath shouldn’t be something you have to face alone. If you’ve been injured in a crash, reach out to the Halperin Law Center for a free consultation. As experienced Richmond car accident attorneys, we’re here to guide you through every step, protect your rights, and fight for
the outcome you deserve.
