Between the snowy roads, wild animals, and unpredictable drivers there is always a risk of getting into a car crash. You can never truly be prepared for a collision but you can be prepared for what comes after. It is important to know the necessary steps to ensure the best outcomes following a motor vehicle accident.

Assess Your Situation

Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Are you injured? Is anyone else in the car injured? Is your car in a safe location or position? Where is the other driver? In the chaos of an accident, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Staying calm will help you think clearly and ensure everyone’s safety.

Notify Law Enforcement

It is important that you notify law enforcement and emergency services following a car crash. In Montana the law requires you to report any accident causing $1,000 or more in damages, or if anyone is injured or killed. If for some reason you are not able to notify police during the time of the accident a crash report must be filed within 10 days of the accident.

If possible, ask witnesses to remain in the area. The investigating officer will want to speak with anyone who saw the accident. Do not admit fault – wait until you have spoken with an attorney to provide more of an official statement.

Notifying law enforcement also means they will file an official crash report. You have the ability to request a copy of this report for your records. Typically, insurance adjusters and attorneys will want to have a copy of this report as well. The Montana Highway Patrol, Missoula City Police, and most other law enforcement agencies have request forms on their websites.

Gather Your Own Evidence

We live in an age where cameras are easily stored in our pockets. Before vehicles are moved and the police arrive, take pictures of the damage to both vehicles from several angles. This will be extremely useful to law enforcement, and to you in future legal matters. If it is safe and reasonable to do so, try to take pictures of:

• Exterior of both vehicles: Take clear, close up shots of all damages to vehicles involved. As well as wide-angle shots of the entire vehicle or vehicles
• Specific areas of impact: Dents, scratches, broken parts, shattered windows, etc.
• License plates, both front and rear for identification purposes
• Overall accident scene & vehicle positions
• Roadway markings: Skid marks, debris, objects on the road, etc.
• Traffic signals and signage
• Insurance information from yourself and all other parties involved
• Any injuries you sustained

Seek Medical Attention

In addition to property damage, physical injuries are common in vehicle collisions. It’s best to see a physician at an emergency room right away. Whether you go via ambulance or on your own it is important that you get to an emergency room. However, keep in mind that some injuries don’t manifest themselves until after the adrenaline has worn off. At any point throughout the process, it is crucial to see a doctor at least once to make sure you are not seriously injured.

If you don’t want to go to the emergency room, urgent care clinics are also available for you. It is always better to be safe than sorry. Seeing a medical professional also documents your injuries. This documentation can be a deciding factor in your insurance claim.

Consult an Attorney

Working with insurance companies on your own can be difficult and stressful. It could be beneficial for you to speak with an experienced attorney who has handled matters like this before. They can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf, ensure your medical bills are covered, and help you receive fair compensation. They will also negotiate the best possible settlement for you.

A car accident can turn your life upside down but knowing what steps to take can help you navigate the aftermath with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, or legal challenges, remember you don’t have to face it alone. Taking action early can make all the difference in securing the best possible outcome.

Contact Rasmusson Law Offices, PLLC at 406-549-3323 for a free consultation.