It does not appear as though the car accident rate will decrease substantially any time soon in North Carolina. In 2016, over 130,000 people sustained injuries in car crashes, which is a 5.3 percent increase from the previous year. These numbers come courtesy of the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles.
Immediately after the auto collision, you need to speak with the other driver to acquire his or her insurance information and phone number. However, there are other people you will need to call right after the crash to ensure you have a smoother claims process.
The police
In the state of North Carolina, individuals must report any accidents to the police if the crash results in death, substantial injuries or property damage over $1,000. A police report will also help with the claims process because there will be an official report of what transpired at the scene. In the event that you fail to report the incident to the police, then you may have your driver’s license suspended.
Your insurance provider
You should contact your insurance agency shortly after the crash. You do not need to give the agent too much information at this time because you may not have all the details yourself. If the agent asks you any questions that you do not know the answers to, then feel free to say you do not know and wish to speak with an attorney.
Your doctor
Finally, you want to receive a medical check-up within 24 hours of the crash. Even if you do not feel injured, there are certain wounds that may not result in any symptoms until days or weeks later. A doctor’s report will also help with the claims process. You want to take any doctor recommendations seriously, such as if the doctor tells you to take certain medication. Following the doctor’s recommendations precisely will help in the event the incident goes to court.
