Staying Safe After a Car Accident

 Posted on June 23, 2022 in Car Accidents

Just because your vehicle has come to a stop after a car crash does not mean that the danger has passed. There is still a risk of what is called a “secondary” car accident. After you have been in a car crash, your vehicle is probably stopped in a rather unconventional place and you may not be able to move it. This can put you at risk of being hit again, either while still in your car or while on foot. There can also be danger associated with the other driver, especially if road rage was a factor in your accident. Knowing how to keep yourself safe in the aftermath of a car accident can stop a bad day from turning into a horrible one. After you have gotten to safety, your next step should be to contact an attorney for help recovering compensation.

Tips for Preventing Further Harm After a Traffic Accident

Keep in mind that not all tips will apply to all situations. Some steps that may help keep you safe from further injury after a car accident include:

• Lights - Turn on your flashers so that other vehicles can see you more easily, especially when it is dark out.
• Move vehicles - If your vehicle is still drivable, move it out of the roadway and onto the shoulder. This reduces the odds of an inattentive driver running straight into your car and potentially causing another accident. Stay out of the area your vehicle might be pushed into if it is hit a second time.
• Stay visible - Avoid walking behind the damaged vehicles where other drivers may not be able to spot you. If it is very dark, consider turning on your phone’s flashlight so others can see where you are walking or standing. However, do not shine your flashlight at other vehicles - keep it low to the ground.
• Deescalate - Do not argue with or show anger towards the other driver, especially if he seems eager to start a fight. Never provoke a driver whose road rage has already caused an accident. If you need to, walk away just far enough to get to a safer or more populated area to reduce the chance of an assault. Make sure you inform the dispatcher where you went and why you had to walk away when you call the police.

If a secondary collision does occur, you may also have a claim against the driver who caused the second crash. An attorney will be able to help you determine which parties may be liable to you for any harm that occurs after the initial accident.

Speak With a Lake County Car Accident Attorney

If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident - or after one - Salvi & Maher, LLP may be able to recover substantial compensation on your behalf. Our aggressive Waukegan car accident lawyers will help you identify any potentially liable parties and take you through the claims process. Contact us at 847-662-3303 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/car-insurance/what-to-do-after-accident/