• Make sure you and your passenger are safe
• If you are able to, tend to the basic needs of yourself and passengers
• Move yourself and your passengers to a place of safety (away from the accident)
• Do not leave the scene of the accident (even it is was a minor fender bender)
• Call the police (911) to report the accident
• Call family members or friends letting them know that you are OK
• Exchange information with the other driver(s) (write down the name, address, phone, insurance information of the other driver)
• Write down the names and address of any witness
• Make sure to write down the year, make and model and color of the other vehicle
• Take pictures of everything
• Do not get into an argument with the other driver(s) about anything
• Comply with law enforcement officers on the scene
• If your insurance company sends an adjuster to the scene, do not give any written or recorded statements regarding the accident
• Do not accept a check from the insurance adjuster at the scene of the accident
• Do not allow the medics to transport your children or spouse without you being there, insist on it!
• Be strong and don't be gullible at this time
  
  7 Things To Do The Day After An Automobile Accident
  
• Review your insurance policy so that you know all the benefits you are entitled to receive
• Start keeping an accident journal
• Write down the date, time, names and all details of everyone you speak to regarding the accident
• Report the accident to your insurer and get a claim number
• If the insurer is taping your conversation, demand a copy of the recording and a transcript of the conversation. If they refuse to provide you with a copy of the conversation, do not give your permission to be recorded.
• Call your employer to let them know about the accident and request a few days off from work. There are plenty of things that you must deal with in a short time and you will need to time off.
• Call us at (813) 973-2261 to make an appointment to have your injuries evaluated. The law allows you only a limited time to get your injuries taken care of. You may be injured even in a minor (fender bender) accident.

     Your Next Steps ..

• Embrace your family and friends
• See about getting your car repaired and arrange for alternate transportation
• If your car is a total loss, make sure that you are paid the proper book value
• Inform your lien holder that the car is a total loss and let them know that your are insured and the loan will be satisfied by your insurance company
• However continue to pay your car note until the loan amount is satisfied by your insurer
• Get a copy of the accident report from the police department and check it for accuracy
• Try to relax
  
  Tip: If you must miss work due to an injury you suffered as a result of the accident, the PIP portion of your automobile insurance policy should pay you up to 60% of your lost wages. Don't be cheated out of this benefit.
  
  Finally, work diligently with the professionals that you hire to assist you.
  
  Take a Post Accident Health Quiz