When you've been in an automobile accident, here are the first things you need to be sure to do. You might want to keep a copy of this information in your car,, just in case of an automobile accident.

You are probably asking: WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I AM INVOLVED IN AN AUTO ACCIDENT?

Remember these tips after your auto accident:

• Remember that the safety of everyone involved takes top priority. Be sure to turn on your car's flashers, and be careful with traffic. If anyone has been hurt, call for medical help.
• Get the full names and addresses of all passengers in every vehicle, and every driver involved in the accident.
• Get the driver's license numbers of all the drivers involved.
• If any drivers appear to be intoxicated, make note of that and be sure police come to the scene and tell the police. Call the police yourself if necessary.
• Did you or anyone receive medical assistance at the scene of the accident?
• Describe the weather conditions at the time of the accident.
• Find the names and addresses of the registered owners of the vehicles.
• Obtain the insurance registration of the vehicles involved and the names of the insurance companies and policy numbers.
• Be sure to write down how the accident happened.
• Use your cell phone to take pictures of the scene.
• Get the names, addresses and telephone numbers of any witnesses so that you know who to call if the accident needs to be investigated.
• Keep your copy of any papers you receive from a police officer on the scene.
• Don't discuss the accident with other drivers or witnesses. If you admit liability, this may be used against you later. You also don't want to start any arguments. But, be sure to write down if anyone else said anything to accept responsibility for the accident or admitting guilt.

Writing down this information is critical as soon as possible after the accident. You need to gather as much information as possible, immediately after the accident and WRITE IT DOWN. Don't rely on your memory. Instead, write the information on a piece of paper. It's ok to take photo's and video on your cell phone. Memories fade, and other people will remember things differently than you.

Be careful of what you say at the accident. Again, don't say that you accept responsibility or sign anything. It is ok to give your personal information and give a description of the accident to the police.

You will need to file a police report if the damages exceed a certain amount. You will also need to report your auto accident to your insurance company promptly. If you find your insurance company uncooperative in any way, you should contact an attorney before you proceed. Do not give the insurance company permission to record your conversation. However, don't delay in reporting the accident to your insurance company or you may lose coverage.

Be sure to seek medical treatment if you are injured. Many people think that their injuries are too minor to seek help. However, these types of injuries are not always immediately obvious. For your own protection, you should obtain X-rays and have an evaluation in a local emergency room. Going home and waiting to get treatment later may harm your claim and your recovery. For example, neck and back injuries are sometimes not evident at the time of the accident. Often you need a CT scan or and MRI to diagnose a herniated disc and other spinal injuries.

A capable automobile accident lawyer can advise you about your claim and damages. There is generally no fee for the case evaluation, and most cases are handled on a contingency fee basis with no fee to you unless there is a recovery.

This article is intended to provide general information only and is not specific legal advice. You should not rely upon this information alone, but should consult legal counsel regarding the application of the laws and regulations discussed and as applied to your specific case or circumstance.