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What To Do After a Single-Car Accident

A single-vehicle car accident can be unexpectedly complicated, and its effects can be devastating. The accidents can cause tremendous property damage and serious injuries. Generally, the dangers of single-car accidents aren’t very different from accidents involving multiple vehicles. 

Common types of single-car accidents include hitting a cyclist or pedestrian, overturning and rolling over, hitting an animal, and colliding with a tree or wall. Here are a few essential things to do if you are involved in one.

  1. Remain Calm

It is easy to panic after an accident. However, you should do your best to remain calm and in control of the situation. Remaining calm increases your likelihood of making the right decision. 

  1. Keep Everyone Safe

Check on everyone in your car to ensure that they are safe. After an accident, nothing is more important than safety. Even if the damage seems to be minor, it may be more serious than you imagine. 

Administer first aid when necessary and contact 911. Set up warning triangles and turn on hazard lights if you cannot get your car away from the road. 

When no one is injured, ensure that they move away from traffic. If they are seriously injured, it would be best to leave them there until medical professionals get to the scene. 

  1. Don’t Admit Fault to Anyone

In single-vehicle accidents, it is easy to assume that the driver is at fault. However, this isn’t always true. There are lots of instances where the driver is actually the victim. When you are unsure about the specifics of your case, it is best to remain silent, avoid posting about it on social media, or speaking to others at the scene of the accident. 

If the accident was unavoidable, the driver cannot be said to be at fault. Common cases where the driver may not be at fault include:

  • If they hit an animal
  • If it is a result of severe weather conditions
  • If the pedestrian or bicyclist was at fault
  1. Gather Evidence

Gather as much evidence of the accident as you can. Take photos, videos, and witness accounts as they will help you pursue compensation. 

When the police arrive, ask for a copy of their report. If the accident happened on private property, get a statement from the manager or security officer. Having third-party accounts of the accident puts you in a favorable position to pursue compensation.

  1. Contact an Experienced Attorney

After a Salem single-car accident, contact a Salem personal injury lawyer as soon as you can. They will answer your questions regarding the accident and help you in the process of pursuing compensation. They may help you contact your insurance company. 

Single car accidents may not be very common, but they happen. If you are involved in one, there are a few essential things to do. Stay calm, keep everyone safe, avoid admitting fault, and gather as much evidence as you can. Get the help of a personal injury lawyer when you need to pursue compensation.

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