What to Do Following a RI Car Accident

A car accident can be frightening and challenging. It is easy to feel overwhelmed and not know what to do, at the scene of the crash, and afterwards.

The Rhode Island State Police publishes a list of recommendations for Rhode Island car accidents. First, do not leave the scene. If you leave, you could be charged with a hit and run and subject to criminal prosecution. Call emergency services, pull to the side of the road if possible, and stay in your vehicle with the hazard lights on. Wait for a police officer to come. The officer will give you an accident report number that you can later use to retrieve your crash report. Though it may be tempting to not report the accident to the police, doing so may jeopardize your ability to report pertinent facts about the accident to your insurance company and get accurate contact and insurance information from the other party.

48 hours after the accident, you can go online to GetCrashReports.com to purchase your crash report.

There are important time deadlines and things to do in the days following an accident. Speaking to an insurance company before speaking to a car accident attorney can hurt your case more than it will help you. Insurance companies look out for their own interests, especially saving money. An experienced car accident lawyer knows how to handle issues to protect your interests, such as responding to insurance companies’ inquiries, identifying appropriate medical professionals, handling your medical bills, and getting your car repaired. A car accident lawyer can also help you value the losses you suffer as a result of the accident, such as lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering.