We are blessed to live in one of the most visited cities in the U.S. with a wonderful natural beauty, world-renown restaurant scene, history and nightlife. But, unfortunately, the flip side to living in such a desirable area is that our roadways are often clogged with not just traffic, but also drivers that are not familiar with the area. This, unfortunately, makes our roadways and highways especially dangerous, which can be a scary scenario. However, once one knows what to do after a car accident, it makes the experience much less scary.
Immediately after a car accident
According to the Seattle Police Department, the first thing one should do after being involved in (or witnessing) a car accident is to call 9-1-1. A key piece of advice here is that witnesses should also call 9-1-1. Of course, if one did not actually witness the auto accident happen, or if first responders are already on the scene, do not call 9-1-1. But, since witnesses can be so important to recreating how and why an accident occurred, letting the police know what one saw and identifying one’s self to them can be a key bit of information.
What if it is a minor accident?
While SPD does not recommend contacting 9-1-1, it is still a good idea to contact them nonetheless for two primary reasons. First, unless one is a doctor, no one knows the full extent of an auto accident’s trauma on those involved. A medical professional should examine all involved to make sure that everyone is actually okay. After all, soft tissue damage could pop up days after the accident, and even fracturs may not be noticed in the heat of the moment. Second, getting a police report and a police accounting of the facts can make all the difference to both the insurance companies and a court, if one should have to sue later. The police report is an independent, third-party accounting of what happened or at least what appears to have happened at the time of the car accident. Especially when one driver disputes the facts, this can make the difference in a “he said, she said” scenario.
What if one was already in an accident and they did not call 9-1-1
All is not lost. Hopefully, insurance and contact information were exchanged, along with pictures taken of the car accident scene. And, making a police report is still possible. In fact, Washington law requires that one is made if there are at least $1,000 in damages between the cars. And, for today’s vehicles, that is basically every accident. Seattle residents (and residents of Washington generally) can report the car accident on the Collision Report website with the Washington State Patrol. WSP is also the custodian for all auto accident reports in our state.
Finally, after a Seattle, Washington, resident is involved in a car accident, they should contact a local attorney. This will ensure that one’s rights are protected and compensation attained.
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