Being injured in a car accident can be a life-altering experience, often accompanied by confusion, stress, and uncertainty about what steps to take next. Whether the accident is minor or severe, knowing how to respond appropriately is fundamental to protecting your health, legal rights, and financial interests. This guide outlines the critical actions to take immediately following a car accident in Alberta, including what to do at the scene, how to proceed afterward, and common pitfalls to avoid.
At the scene
1.Stop to assess the scene: Assessing the scene of the accident will help in determining if you need to call 911. Do not leave the scene of the accident unattended because doing so may lead to demerit points on your driving record or criminal prosecution, which could result in fines, license suspension, or even imprisonment.
2. Call 911: You must contact emergency services, e.g. fire services, ambulance or the police as quickly as possible where needed. You need to call 911 where:
• You or any other person involved in the accident is seriously injured. This is important to ensure that the injured person gets the appropriate medical attention as soon as possible.
• You suspect that any other driver was driving impaired.
3. Report the situation to the Police: In addition to calling 911, it’s important to report to the police. This step ensures that the necessary measures are taken, especially in situations where anyone is injured or the drivers involved do not have the appropriate documentation. It’s a way to protect your rights and ensure a fair resolution.
In a situation where the combined damages to the cars involved exceed $5,000, ensure you obtain a Collision report at the Collision Centre. This report is a crucial document for insurance claims and legal proceedings, so make sure to note the assigned case number for future reference.
4. Exchange Information: You must exchange information with the driver of the other cars involved. The information you should exchange is the driver’s license information, vehicle registration and insurance.
5. Documentation: You should document the accident in addition to exchanging information with the other driver. Take photographs of the scene, the damage done to the vehicle, and the testimony of witnesses. Getting information from the witnesses of the accident and their account of the event will also be helpful to your case.
After you have left the scene
1.Contact your insurance company: Make sure you contact your insurance company as soon as possible when you are injured in a car accident and give them the information they need. Getting your insurance company involved is crucial to ensure that you receive access to the medical benefits to which you are entitled.
2. Seek legal advice or assistance: Getting professional assistance from lawyers with experience in personal injury is crucial to understanding your rights. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate dealing with the insurance company of the other driver, ensure you get the appropriate compensation you are entitled to, and prevent you from getting shortchanged by the insurance company.
Engaging the service of a lawyer is essential, especially where the accident is complex, e.g. where there are multiple collisions.
3. Getting medical treatment: Your health, both physical and mental, is of utmost importance. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek medical treatment when you are injured in a car accident. This step ensures that you receive the care you need and can begin the recovery process.
DOs and DON’Ts
| DOS | DON’TS |
| Stop at the scene and call 911. | Leave the scene of the accident unattended. |
| Exchange information with the other drivers. | Approach the accident scene if it is unsafe. |
| Document the accidents by taking photographs of the scene and collecting an account of witnesses. | Be quick to admit fault at the scene of the accident. |
| Report the incident to the police as the circumstance requires. | Be quick to accept the first offer made by the insurance company. |
| Contact your insurance company. | Lie to your insurance company. |
| Get medical help. | Underestimate the injuries suffered from the accident. |
| Get legal assistance. | Delay in seeking legal assistance. |
| Posting social media content about your accident. | Delay in seeking medical attention. |
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident requires prompt and informed decision-making. By following the steps outlined in this guide—securing medical attention, documenting the incident, contacting your insurance provider, and seeking legal advice—you can safeguard your well-being and ensure your rights are protected.
If you are ever uncertain about what to do when you are injured in a car accident, you can book a consultation with us at Watchmaker Law. Our team provide client-focused and empathetic services to help our clients who are injured in car accidents.
We are available 24/7 to review the facts of your specific case and provide information to you on the options available to you. We can be reached at 825-203-9801 or chat live with a member of our legal team now on our home page.
