Getting into an auto accident can be a scary event, considering over 3 million accidents happen annually. Statistics from insurance providers show that drivers make one claim every 17.9 years on average, so you’ll need to know how the claims process works. You must take some steps after an accident in Mobile, Alabama, to ensure you get compensated.

The first thing to do after a motor vehicle accident is check all passengers and move them to a safe spot. If minor accidents happen on a busy highway, it is commonly safer for children and disabled people to remain in the vehicle. Typically, you should refrain from moving children in car seats unless there’s a need because they can have hidden injuries. If you can’t move the vehicle, attempt to turn on your emergency flashers or make a reflector.

Call 911 for your injured passengers, the other vehicle’s driver or passengers, or yourself, or find a bystander to call. Never leave vulnerable people, such as children or the elderly, inside a hot vehicle. You will want to mitigate damages by getting medical treatment as some injuries may not be apparent right away.

You may need to report minor car accidents even without injuries in some jurisdictions. If you live in a jurisdiction that doesn’t require police to respond to minor accidents, file a report with the police.

If possible, collect vital information at the scene of the accident. This includes:

Take photos of the damage from various angles; if you didn’t get pictures, find someone who did. If drivers won’t give you their information, note their tag number and report it to police.

All this information can help you in filing a claim for compensation from the insurance provider. Many companies prefer to settle claims out of court instead of the hassles of a trial.

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