Car accidents happen in an instant. You might be driving down Jefferson Avenue in one moment, and the next, you are dealing with airbags, flashing lights, and a rush of adrenaline. Even a simple fender bender can be overwhelming. In any situation, it can be easy to feel disoriented, and you might be asking yourself, “What should I do immediately after a car accident in Detroit?”
Taking these next steps can protect your safety and a potential legal claim down the road. Here is a step-by-step look at what to do right after a car crash in the Motor City.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your very first priority is the safety of yourself and others. Make sure to check everyone for injuries. If anyone appears hurt, call 911 right away. Emergency responders can assess the situation, provide medical care, and create an official accident report. That report could be needed for insurance and legal purposes.
If you receive any medical care, document it. Also, continue any treatment recommended by the healthcare provider. All this will be important as you move through the claims process.
Step 2: Contact the Police
In the event of any crash, you should always call the police. In Detroit, officers from the Detroit Police Department or Michigan State Police will respond to the scene. When the officer arrives, stick to the facts. You never want to admit fault or speculate about what happened. Once the report is complete, ask how to get a copy. You will need it for your insurance claim and any future legal action.
If officers cannot come to the scene, you can still file a police report. Michigan law requires drivers to report accidents that cause injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. You can do this at a local police station or online through the Michigan State Police Traffic Crash Reporting System.
Step 3: Exchange Information
After making sure everyone is safe and the authorities are on their way, exchange information with the other driver. You will want to get:
- Full name, address, and phone number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
If there are any witnesses, get their names and contact information, too. Third-party witnesses can often resolve disputes about who was at fault.
Step 4: Document the Scene
Your phone can be one of the most useful tools after an accident. Make sure to take photos or videos of:
- All vehicles involved, from multiple angles
- Visible damage to cars and property
- Road conditions, traffic signals, and skid marks
- Any visible injuries
This type of documentation can support your insurance claim and protect you if there are any disagreements. You always want to note the date, time, weather conditions, and any other details that might be relevant.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
Michigan is a no-fault insurance state. In these cases, your own insurance company covers your medical expenses and lost wages, no matter who caused the crash. However, you still need to report the accident right away.
Contact your insurer as soon as possible and provide the details of the collision. Failure to report the accident in time could jeopardize your ability to receive benefits under your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage.
Step 6: File a No-Fault Application
In Michigan, you must file a no-fault application for benefits or a “written notice of injury” with your insurance company within one year of the crash to qualify for PIP benefits. This form starts your claim for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.
Step 7: Consider Speaking with a Car Accident Attorney
While many minor fender-benders can be handled directly through insurance, serious accidents are a different story. If you suffered severe injuries, lost wages, or permanent impairment, you may be entitled to additional compensation beyond no-fault benefits.
A Detroit personal injury lawyer can review your case, handle communications with insurers, and make sure you meet all filing deadlines.
Get Legal Assistance for Your Detroit Car Crash
Detroit’s roads can be tough, and accidents can happen even to the most careful drivers. Taking the right steps immediately after a crash can make a difference in the claim or personal injury process.
At the Law Office of James Fillmore, we can assist you during this time. We will listen to the facts of the crash and help you in the recovery process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
