If you get involved in a car accident in Vancouver, it is important to know exactly what to do afterward to ensure your health, safety and the preservation of your legal rights. If you can, remain calm and remember to take these steps in the aftermath of a motor vehicle collision.
Get Medical Care
In the State of Washington, more than 800 people died and close to 3,500 were injured in car accidents in 2023. In Vancouver alone, there were 17 traffic accident deaths. Driving in Vancouver comes with crash risks related to dangerous driver behaviors such as speeding, distracted driving and traffic law violations.
Getting into a car crash can be overwhelming. However, you should always put your safety first. Check yourself and others in your vehicle for physical injuries. If someone is badly injured, call 911 to request an ambulance to your location. Otherwise, go to the nearest hospital immediately after the crash to get checked by professionals.
Report the Car Accident to Vancouver Police
State law in Washington requires drivers to report any car accident to the police that results in the injury or death of any person or property damage worth at least $1,000. You may wish to report a minor accident, as well, so that you obtain a police report. This can be an important document during a car insurance claim.
Don’t Admit Fault
Never apologize to the other driver or admit any type of fault during conversations with the driver, the police or insurance providers. Admitting fault can immediately place liability or financial responsibility on you, even if you were not at fault or the sole person responsible. Instead, wait for an investigation to determine what happened.
Exchange Information
State law also requires you to exchange identifying information with the other driver involved in a car accident. Write down the other driver’s full name, address, phone number, license plate number, description of the vehicle and insurance information. You can use this information to contact the driver’s insurance provider and file a claim later. If you are unable to gather this information yourself, the police report should have it for you.
Take Photos
While your priority should always be your health and safety, you should also start thinking in terms of your legal rights. Build a strong case by collecting evidence while you are still at the scene, if possible.
If you can, take pictures of the following:
- The scene of the car accident
- Damage to both vehicles
- The surrounding roadway and road markings
- Weather conditions
- Physical injuries
A car accident attorney in Vancouver can help you gather other evidence later, such as copies of dashcam, traffic or surveillance footage.
Get Help From an Attorney
Contact your car insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Before engaging in conversations with an insurance claims adjuster, however, consult with a local car accident lawyer. Unlike an insurance company, a lawyer will work for you and want you to settle your claim for as much money as possible.
Before accepting a settlement or signing anything sent to you by an insurance company, contact an attorney at NW Injury Law Center for a free consultation. We can help you understand your rights and determine what steps to take next. Our case reviews come at no cost or obligation to hire us.