Seeing your child hurt in a car accident, regardless of who caused the accident, can be difficult. It will most likely cause a parent stress, but it's important to remain calm so you can help your child. Here what you should do after a car accident:
If your child appears to be seriously hurt, the first thing you need to do is get them medical attention immediately by calling 911. While there are a number of vital things to be done at the scene of the collision, getting medical care and making sure everybody is safe should be your top priority.
Next, even if there are no serious injuries, you still want to call the authorities to make a traffic collision report. Do not anyone at the scene of the accident talk you out of reporting the crash to the police. Not reporting the accident to authorities can create problems with your accident claim down the road. For example, there are now some insurance policies that will not offer coverage if the authorities aren't called within a particular amount of time.
Exchange contact information with the other motorists and get their insurance info. This is extremely important. Ask to see and photograph their driver's license and insurance card so you know the info is correct.
If your child appears to be fine, you should collect some evidence of your own before heading off to the hospital to be checked out. Take as many photos as you can of the accident. Take pictures of your car and any other cars that were involved, your injuries, and also the surrounding area.
Talk to independent witnesses and get their contact information if you can. Encourage nearby witnesses to stay at the scene and speak to the investigating police officers. In a disputed liability claim, an independent witness can win your case.
Lastly, you'll want to begin looking for a lawyer. It's important that you hire a lawyer prior to talking to the insurance companies. The insurance carrier of the at-fault party will start working against your interests right away. An insurance adjuster might attempt to take a recorded statement, or may even attempt to fool you into signing a release of claims for a lowball settlement.