Essential Steps to Take After a High-Speed Car Collision

The aftermath of a high-speed car collision can be overwhelming, leaving you shaken and unsure of what to do next. Taking prompt and prudent action following the accident can significantly contribute to safeguarding yourself and others. You must protect your legal rights and navigate the insurance claim process.

Securing the scene, attending to injuries, reporting the accident, and gathering evidence must also be done. In this article, we will guide you through the essential actions you should take after a high-speed collision,

Ensure Safety at the Scene

According to WHO, approximately 20-50 million persons suffer injuries due to car collisions that might not be lethal, but many of them face disability. More than 50% of road users like motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians are prone to traffic deaths. It means you are prone to injuries even if you are not driving.

Ensuring safety is your top priority after a high-speed crash. If possible, take your car away from rush and traffic, but don’t risk further injury or creating another hazard. Check yourself and your fellows for wounds and damages. If you see others involved who appear hurt, call emergency services quickly.

Be aware of your surroundings for any leaking fluids, fires, or downed power lines. If you see sparking wires or smell gasoline, evacuate everybody from the scene quickly. Use caution when approaching the wreckage and avoid touching anything that could be a danger.

Call Emergency Services

Calling emergency services should be your next step, even if the damage appears minor or there are no obvious injuries. Adrenaline can mask pain, and delayed medical attention can worsen seemingly minor injuries. When calling emergency services, tell them you have faced a serious car crash. Provide your exact site of the accident, including any landmarks or mile markers, if not the street name.

The CDC reports an average yearly emergency department visit rate of 11.6 per 1,000 people for car accident injuries. Even though the incidence rate may appear low, it’s vital to seek medical care after a car accident, regardless of its seeming minor impact. In certain instances, injuries may not manifest immediately. If you opt not to go to the emergency department, contact a healthcare professional promptly for a proper evaluation.

Stay calm and answer the dispatcher’s questions about injuries, the number of vehicles involved, and any hazards at the scene. Follow what they instruct, and don’t hang up until help arrives.

Document the Scene

While the help is coming up, try to document the scene if you can do it safely. Use your phone’s camera to capture wide shots of the entire accident scene, including the positions of all vehicles involved, traffic signals, and landmarks.

Then, take close-up photos of the damage to your car and the other vehicles, focusing on license plates, skid marks, debris, and visible damages. If possible, capture photos of any injuries, but only do so with the permission of the injured parties. These photos will serve as crucial evidence for the police report and insurance claims, helping to reconstruct the events of the accident.

Legal Considerations

When it comes to legal considerations after a high-speed collision, avoid discussing fault at the scene. Exchanging apologies or admitting responsibility can be misconstrued later. Instead, respectfully exchange basic details with the other drivers, like their names, contact info, and insurance providers. Do not settle for any repairs or settlements on the spot. Once you’ve received medical attention, TorHoerman Law recommends consulting with a lawyer specializing in car accidents.

Local authorities are looking into a serious accident reported by Fox2Now that took place in St. Louis. It involved multiple vehicles and left several people hurt, with tragically one person losing their life. The accident occurred around 2 am on July 5th, 2024, in the Walnut Park East neighborhood near West Florissant and Thrush Avenues.

If you were unfortunately injured in this accident or a similar one, a car accident lawyer in St. Louis can help. They can clarify your legal entitlements and navigate you through the intricate insurance claim procedure. Moreover, they will advocate to secure fair compensation for your injuries and any losses incurred.

Seek Medical Attention

Don’t ignore your health after a high-speed crash, even if you feel fine. The accident’s adrenaline rush can hide serious injuries. Some, like whiplash or internal bleeding, might not show symptoms right away.

A checkup by a doctor is key to finding and treating any hidden injuries quickly. This not only helps you heal better but also creates a medical record connecting your injuries to the accident. This record could be crucial for insurance claims or legal issues later on.

There are thousands of personal injury cases that need medical attention. However, as mentioned in NSC Injury Facts, only 63 million people, i.e., only 20% of people, sought medical attention after an injury. Avoiding medical attention immediately after injury can also lead to death.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Report the incident to your insurance providers as soon as possible, even if you haven’t decided to file a claim yet. This allows them to initiate the process and keeps them aware of the situation.

They can provide valuable guidance on the next steps, answer questions about your coverage, and help you navigate the claims process if you file. Remember to have your policy information and details about the accident readily available when you contact them.

Emotional and Psychological Support

The emotional toll of a high-speed car crash can be high. You may experience shock, anxiety, or even flashbacks. Don’t feel shy about reaching out for emotional and psychological support. Talk to friends, family members, or a therapist about your mental state.

Reaching out to individuals who have faced similar challenges can provide significant support. Support groups provide a secure environment to openly discuss your experiences and connect with others who empathize with your feelings. Remember that nurturing your mental well-being is as crucial as recovering physically from an accident.

Questions Commonly Asked

How do I document the scene of the accident effectively?

Safely capture photos and videos of the entire scene, including vehicle damage and any injuries, with your phone’s camera. Take zoomed pictures of important info like license plates and skid marks. This documentation will be handy during insurance claims and accident reports.

Why is it crucial to seek medical attention even if I feel fine?

After a high-speed collision, adrenaline can mask injuries, and some issues like whiplash or internal bleeding take time to show symptoms. See a doctor to ensure any potential injuries are recognized and handled promptly.

What legal steps should I consider following a severe car collision?

Following a severe car collision, consult an attorney to understand your legal rights and navigate the claims process. Avoid discussing faults at the scene and exchange only basic information with other drivers.

Safety, Rights, and Recovery

The aftermath of a high-speed collision can be stressful. Following these essential steps can help ensure your safety, protect your rights, and ease the recovery process. Remember to prioritize safety first, document the scene thoroughly, and seek medical attention even if you feel well. Don’t hesitate to consult an attorney and lean on your support system for emotional and psychological well-being.