Should I Get Out of My Car Following a Car Crash

Should you stay in your car after an accident? This might not be the question you ever expected to ask yourself. However, because accidents can result from the negligence of others, it’s an important consideration.

Experiencing a car crash can be shocking and frightening. You might feel a rush of emotions: fear, confusion, or even disbelief.

If you ever find yourself in this situation, knowing what steps to take next is helpful. Taking the proper steps in the aftermath of a car accident can play a significant role in your immediate safety.

Knowing whether to get out of your vehicle after an auto accident can also influence potential compensation if you file a claim or lawsuit. What you do at the accident scene can have ripple effects that impact settlement negotiations and the potential value of your claim.

Should You Stay in Your Car After an Accident, or Get Out?

The answer to this question will vary depending on numerous factors. Generally, you should get out of your car after an auto accident unless your injuries are severe enough to make doing so unsafe.

More specifically, you should take the following steps after a wreck:

• Assess your safety first: Your safety and the safety of others are the priority after a collision. If your vehicle is in a dangerous position or obstructing traffic, and it’s safe to do so, you may need to exit it. However, assess your condition first. Are you injured? Are your passengers okay? If you feel pain or discomfort, it’s best to remain in your car and wait for help. However, you should also account for the overall vehicle damage. Depending on the nature of the damage, you may have good reason to suspect that remaining in the vehicle is unsafe, and exercise sound judgment based on all factors.
• MAYBE move your vehicle: Your damaged vehicle could pose a road hazard that might put other motorists at risk. However, attempting to operate a vehicle could cause further damage (and even further injury) if the damage to the vehicle is already significant, if your injuries are already serious, or both. If you’re not injured and the damage to your vehicle is minor, you may move it to the side of the road and turn on the hazard lights. Doing so may be wise if you can move your vehicle to a side street or a nearby parking lot. Your goal is to find a safe environment to exit your vehicle. Just make sure you’re not moving a vehicle when the damage renders doing so unsafe. You should also assess how much your vehicle’s movement may disturb evidence at the accident scene.
• Call for help: Call 911 immediately if you or anyone else is injured. Pennsylvania law requires a motorist to report an accident to the police if it results in injury, death, or significant property damage. That said, the symptoms of some accident injuries may not be noticeable immediately. Similarly, damage to the interior of a vehicle might not be visible at the scene of an accident. Even if you think the accident is minor, it’s wise to call the police. Doing so is potentially a legal requirement. In addition, a car accident lawyer will tell you that a police report can be important evidence in a case.
• Document the scene: If it’s safe, carefully exit your vehicle. Take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to all vehicles involved. Documenting the scene can provide essential evidence if disputes arise about what happened.
• Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s). This includes names, phone numbers, insurance company names, and policy numbers. You’ll need it for your insurance claim. Store it in a safe spot accordingly.

It’s also very important to maintain your composure at the scene. This is particularly true when waiting until the police arrive. You may be angry if you feel someone else put you in danger, but giving in to angry impulses now could result in a confrontation. Now is a time to gather evidence and try to remain calm.

What You Say and Do at the Car Accident Scene Matters

Pennsylvania’s tort choice system means your words at the accident scene matter. Since drivers can choose between limited tort and full tort coverage, avoid admitting fault or making statements that suggest you caused the accident—these comments can limit your compensation options later.

Pennsylvania law requires the reporting of accidents involving injuries, death, or significant property damage. If you’re unsure about the severity, stay in your vehicle and call 911 rather than risk making things worse. Focus on safety and documentation, not fault determination.

Seek Medical Attention After Your Crash

It is vital to see a doctor after any accident, regardless of how minor you think your injuries might be. Some injuries, such as concussions, whiplash, or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately, yet they can still lead to serious complications later on. For example, a concussion can result in long-term cognitive issues if left unaddressed, and internal injuries can be life-threatening if they go untreated.

By visiting a healthcare professional, you not only prioritize your health and recovery but also establish an official medical record of your injuries. This documentation can be vital if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action later.

Additionally, a medical professional can provide you with guidance on any necessary follow-up care and rehabilitation, helping you to recover more effectively. Remember, taking care of your health should always be your top priority, so do not hesitate to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident. Your well-being is worth it.

Consult With a Car Accident Attorney at Munley Law

A car crash can be overwhelming. At Munley Law, we understand what car accident victims face and work to get our clients the compensation they deserve. We’ve handled car wreck cases resulting in settlements like $4.4 million, and we bring that same dedicated approach to every client we represent.

Getting out of your car after a car accident is usually the right idea. After the police arrive and you’ve received medical attention, it’s also time to consider protecting your rights with the help of legal professionals. Get started today by contacting the car collision attorneys at Munley Law to set up your free consultation.