Rear end collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents. In fact, there are around 1.7 million of them each year.
Unfortunately, many people drive cars without collision avoidance systems. The best way to prevent a rear end collision is simply to pay as much attention as possible while driving. Still, even this may not be enough to avoid this type of accident at some point in a lifetime of driving.
It’s better to be safe than sorry — carefully read the 7 steps below to find out what to do when someone rear ends you.
What To Do When Someone Rear Ends You
Any car accident is a legal matter and could even be criminal. The steps you take following the collision can directly impact your case. It’s best to try and follow the 7 key steps below.
1. Do a Self-Check
Before moving and potentially doing more harm, do a self-check for injuries. If there are others in the car, make sure they are not injured. If so, immediately call an ambulance.
Don’t forget that car accidents can cause sinister injuries that may not present for weeks. Carefully monitor your condition for nausea or prolonged pain.
2. Call the Police
After assessing potential injuries, call the police as soon as possible. Make sure that everyone involved remains at the scene until they arrive.
The police should collect statements from everyone involved, including passengers and bystanders.
3. Collect Evidence
If you’re waiting to talk to the police, or after you’re finished, you can document your own evidence. It’s a good thing that most people have an excellent camera in their pocket.
Take pictures of all vehicles involved, license plates, the crash scene, and even injuries. If any witnesses are willing, collect their names and phone numbers as well.
4. Stay Calm
In most accidents, emotions run high. Even after the adrenaline and shock wear off, sadness, fear, and anger can remain. The most important thing is to stay calm.
Make sure not to say anything that could be used as evidence against you — especially anything about who is at fault.
5. File Necessary Reports
The police officer at the scene should provide a crash report that is crucial for any car accident case. Additionally, some states require drivers to report to the DMV.
The DMV requirement varies by state, so don’t forget to double-check after the accident.
6. Exchange Information
If the other driver is calm, ask them to exchange car insurance information. the insurance companies need to communicate with each other to decide fault and compensation.
In some cases, people just do this in lieu of calling the police. Actually, it’s still advantageous to call the police, no matter how small the accident is.
7. Hire an Attorney
Finally, hiring a lawyer who specializes in car accident cases will best ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Legal representation is almost necessary for anyone facing medical bills or lost wages after a crash.
Driving Tips and More
These 7 steps outline what to do when someone rear ends you. It’s a good idea to print them out and keep them somewhere safe in your car. That way, should anything happen, you can follow the steps even if you’re not thinking clearly.
For more essential life tips, browse our blog. We have so much more.
