One moment, you are driving through Sherman Oaks. Next, there’s a loud bang, and everything changes. Well, car accidents like this are more common in this place than you might think. With busy intersections and constant traffic, the neighborhood sees its fair share of collisions every year.
Of course, the crash is never a part of your plan. But when it happens due to others’ negligence, the first few minutes and hours can make a fair share of difference in your situation. In short, what you do then can impact your health, finances, and even your legal rights.
That’s why it’s important to know what steps to take. This being said, here are some essential actions to take after a crash to protect yourself. Dive into the article!
1. Check Yourself and Others for Injuries
The very first thing to do is assess your own condition after the crash. Are you bleeding? Can you move your limbs? Even if you feel okay, take a few seconds to scan your body. It is because the adrenaline surge after a crash can easily mask pain or injury.
Next, check on your passengers. If anyone is unconscious or is experiencing any pain, do not move them unless there’s an immediate danger like fire or traffic. Contact the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) or dial 911 immediately and clearly explain the nature of the injuries to paramedics so they arrive prepared.
If you’re physically able and it’s safe to exit your vehicle, check on others involved in the crash. However, avoid making accusations or accepting blame. Emotions can run high at the scene, but staying calm and focused on safety should be your top priority.
2. Document Everything at the Scene
Your smartphone is one of your most important tools at this moment. Use it to take clear photos and videos that can later support your claim. Focus on capturing the following:
- The vehicles involved.
- Road signs, traffic lights, or lane markings.
- Any visible injuries to yourself or others.
- Skid marks, broken glass, or scattered debris on the road.
If there are any witnesses, ask for their full names and contact info. Even brief statements from bystanders can make a major difference.
All of this documentation can become valuable for your Sherman Oaks car accident lawyer. They often rely on this kind of evidence to prove fault and protect your claim from being minimized by insurers. Moreover, with the help of initial information you provide, they calculate the full value of your claim. That becomes the ultimate basis for the overall case.
3. Secure a Copy of the Police Report
After the initial chaos settles, one important task often gets overlooked: getting a copy of the official police report. This document is one of the most crucial pieces of evidence if you plan to file an insurance claim or pursue compensation.
In Sherman Oaks, accident reports are typically filed by LAPD officers who respond to the scene. These reports include objective details like:
- The time and location of the crash,
- Involved parties,
- Witness accounts,
- Preliminary fault assessments, and
- Road or weather conditions.
You can request a copy from the LAPD’s Central Records Division, either online or by mail. It may take a few days to become available, but it’s worth following up.
It matters because insurance companies often rely on police reports to verify what happened and who may be at fault. In case of legal claims, your lawyer can use this document to strengthen your case and prevent false claims from being used against you.
4. Prioritize Your Recovery
After the crash and the paperwork are behind you, your long-term well-being often gets ignored. Even in seemingly minor accidents, your body and mind go through a lot. Muscle stiffness, back pain, headaches, or reduced range of motion can show up days later. In such cases, physical therapy or chiropractic care may help restore normal function.
But the recovery isn’t just physical. Many people experience anxiety or disturbed sleep after the mishap. Hence, talk to someone about it and don’t ignore signs like mood swings, panic in traffic, or flashbacks.
To Sum It All Up!
A car accident can throw your life off track in all aspects. But knowing what to do in the moment can make the recovery smoother.
So, if you ever find yourself in a crash in Sherman Oaks, remember these steps. And if you need help about what comes next, speak with a trusted lawyer. They will help you make the informed decisions.