According to Forbes, more than 35,000 fatal vehicle crashes occur in the United States annually. If you have been involved in a serious car crash, you'll need car collision repairs. However, your first priority should be your safety. Once you have received any necessary medical attention, there are some important steps you should take to protect your legal rights and ensure that you are able to receive compensation for your injuries and damages. Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience. In addition to the physical and emotional toll, there may be extensive damage to your vehicle that requires repairs. As an automotive repair business, we understand the importance of providing our customers with valuable information about what you should do after a car accident. While we hope you never find yourself in a car accident, just in case you do, it's best to know what to do if one occurs. In this article, we'll share what steps you should take following an accident.

What Should You Do Immediately After a Serious Car Crash?

Call 911

If the accident is serious, you should contact the authorities immediately. Be sure to give the 911 dispatcher your location, name, and any details of the accident. The police will investigate, create a report, and gather important evidence that can be used to support your claim. Their report will include information about the accident, such as the location, time, and date, the names and contact information of the drivers involved, and the names and contact information of any witnesses.

Seek Medical Attention

After a serious car crash, when authorities arrive, they will assess the situation. Emergency medical personnel will determine if you need immediate medical attention. Whether you feel like you've been injured or not, it's important to allow them to examine you. Some injuries may not present symptoms until several days after your accident. You'll want to make sure you receive prompt treatment for any injuries you may have sustained and ensure that your injuries are documented.

Take Pictures for Evidence

If you can, you should collect as much photographic evidence as possible at the accident scene, especially since you'll likely need car collision repairs. Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and any other vehicles involved in the accident, as well as the surrounding area. If there were any witnesses to your accident, collect their information. This evidence can be used to support your claim and help you receive appropriate compensation for your injuries and damages.

Contact Your Insurance Company

After the accident, whether it is serious or not, you should be sure to contact your insurance company and report it. Your insurance company will provide you with information about what you need to do in order to file a claim. You'll want to be sure to provide your insurance company with accurate and complete information about the accident, including any injuries you may have sustained and any photographic evidence you've gathered.

Contact an Attorney

If you have been seriously injured in a car accident, it is imperative that you contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you understand your legal rights and options, and they can provide you with guidance and support throughout the claims process. Your attorney can also help you negotiate with insurance companies, and they'll represent you in court if necessary.

What Are Your Next Steps?

Now, you'll want to have a professional who is well-versed in car collision repairs take a look at your vehicle. Getting an assessment of any damages will help you determine costs and move forward. There are a variety of services that may help when you've been involved in an automobile accident. We've put together the following list of services you may find beneficial.

Auto Body Repair

Repairing the body of your vehicle is crucial after a car accident. Auto body repair can fix dents, scratches, and other cosmetic damage to your vehicle, and collision repair can address more serious damage, such as damage to the frame of the car. A reputable auto body and collision repair shop will have the expertise and equipment needed to restore your car to its pre-accident condition. This will ensure that it's safe for you to drive.

General Maintenance

We're sure you'll agree that regular maintenance is crucial to keep your car running smoothly. It can also catch any potential problems before they become major issues. After a car accident, it's especially important to have your car inspected for any damage that may not be immediately apparent. Maintenance services may include oil changes, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations, and more.

Brakes and Suspension System Inspection

Your car's brakes and suspension are critical components that must be in good working order to ensure your safety on the road. After a car accident, these components may have sustained damage. A professional mechanic can inspect and repair your brakes and suspension to ensure that your car is safe to take back out on the road.

AC/Heating and Radiator Inspection

Your car's radiator and AC/heating systems are responsible for keeping your engine cool. However, after a car accident, it's possible that these systems may have been damaged. If so, it may mean that your car is no longer safe to drive or that it cannot keep the interior to a comfortable temperature. A professional can diagnose and repair any issues with your radiator or AC/heating system.

Engine Repair

The engine is the heart of your vehicle. It has to be in good working order to make sure that your car is safe to drive. After a car accident, your engine may have sustained damage that makes it unsafe to drive or completely inoperable. Be sure you enlist a professional to diagnose and repair any issues with your engine, or to let you know if it can't be repaired.

Wheel Repair

As you're aware, wheels are responsible for keeping you safe when traveling on the road. If your wheels have been damaged in a car accident, it's imperative you have them repaired or replaced before taking your vehicle back out onto the road. A professional can inspect, repair, or replace your wheels to ensure that your car is safe to operate.

Detailing

Ready to make your car look like new again? After a vehicle accident, your car may be covered in dirt, debris, and other residues. A professional can auto-detail your car to clean, polish, and restore its appearance.

As you can see, there are many services available to help you after a serious car accident. First and foremost, make sure your physical and legal needs are taken care of. Then you'll want to turn your attention to your damaged vehicle. Whether your car has sustained minor or major damage, it's important to work with a reputable business for car collision repairs that can make sure your car is safe to drive and running smoothly.

If you've been involved in a serious car crash, be sure to follow the steps we've outlined to help get the help you need. Being involved in an automobile accident can be devastating. Knowing what to do when and if an accident occurs will help you to take control and move past it as best you can. As an automotive repair business, we are committed to helping you stay safe on the road and providing you with valuable information before you need it. Contact City Side Auto Body today.