Here are some general steps you might consider taking after a car accident:

1. Ensure Safety:
   • Check for injuries and call emergency services if needed.
   • Move to a safe location if possible, especially if the accident is minor.
2. Exchange Information:
   • Exchange contact and insurance information with the other party involved.
   • Note down the names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers.
3. Document the Scene:
   • Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles and any relevant road signs or signals.
   • Collect contact information from any witnesses.
4. File a Police Report:
   • Depending on the severity of the accident, you may need to report it to the police. In some places, it’s mandatory.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company:
   • Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with the details and any documentation you have.
6. Seek Medical Attention:
   • Even if injuries seem minor, it’s advisable to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
7. Keep Records:
   • Keep records of all communication with the other party, witnesses, and your insurance company.
   • Keep track of medical expenses and any repairs to your vehicle.
8. Understand Your Insurance Coverage:
   • Familiarize yourself with your insurance coverage and understand the claims process.
9. Consult with a Legal Professional:
   • If there are disputes or if you’re unsure about legal aspects, consider consulting with a lawyer.

Remember that this is general advice, and the specific steps may vary depending on your location and the circumstances of the accident. It’s crucial to check local laws and regulations and consult with professionals for accurate guidance.

The moments following a car accident can be chaotic, especially if the accident was serious and resulted in personal injury or death. Even minor car accidents can be highly stressful. Many people, caught up in the moment, may not be thinking clearly and could miss something important. What you say and do after a car accident can greatly impact the success of any personal injury claim you may file at a later date. Here are some suggestions on what to do following a car accident:

• Do call for medical help and do call the police
• Do sign an accurate police report
• Do take down the other driver’s personal information including name, phone number, address, insurance information, anything special about the car they were driving such as its condition, and anything notable about the driver, such as appearing intoxicated or otherwise impaired
• Do note the personal information of any eye witnesses as they may be crucial to the success of your case. If people seem hesitant to get involved, let them know your attorney will want to contact them to clarify what happened at the scene of the accident
• Do report the accident to your insurance company providing minimal information and answering only “yes” and “no” when possible. Keep in mind that these conversations are always recorded and admitting fault or saying something else that may seem innocent at the time could hurt you down the road
• Do contact an experienced car accident lawyer

 There are also quite a few things you don’t want to do following an accident such as:

• Don’t admit fault—ever
• Don’t refuse medical attention
• Don’t communicate with the other driver’s insurance company
• Don’t say too much to your insurance company since the conversations are recorded and something you may say can hurt you later if you file a claim against the other driver
• Don’t argue with the police or other driver
• Don’t threaten to sue at the scene of the accident
• Don’t sign anything except an accurate police report that you have read over very carefully
• Don’t wait too long to contact a car accident attorney as there are statutes of limitations on these types of cases

It may seem pretty easy to remember all of this while you sit here and read it, but when you’re in an accident, injured, confused, and upset, your memory may not be so good. Keep in mind that an experienced, knowledgeable car accident lawyer can help you through this difficult time.

Legal Notice per Rules of Professional Responsibility: The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, most cases of this type are referred to other attorneys for principle responsibility.