- January 4, 2023
After a car wreck, some drivers and passengers make the mistake of getting out of their vehicle to check the damage or direct traffic. However, this is a dangerous and even fatal action. The dangers of stepping outside your car after a crash are why the Michigan State Police often advise drivers to remain in their vehicle and call for help.Also, the news is full of people who survived an initial crash only to step out of their vehicle and get hit by an oncoming vehicle. This blog shares reasons for staying in your car after an accident. It also tell you how to increase your safety after a car wreck.
If you or a loved one is involved in a traffic crash, immediately contact our car accident lawyers at Goodman Acker P.C. Call 248-286-8100 to schedule a free case review.
Why Contact Goodman Acker P.C.?
At Goodman Acker P.C., we have decades of experience helping car accident victims. We have a 99% success rate and have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. Our lawyers take a personalized approach to every case we handle and fight to get you fair compensation.
Our lawyers are invested in your case and focus on helping you get back to the life you had before the accident.
We work on a contingency fee basis, so we do not get paid unless and until we get a favorable outcome. Contact us at 248-286-8100 to book a free case review.
How Can You Increase Your Safety After a Car Wreck?
First, you need to stay in your car with the seatbelt on. If you can, you should move the car out of traffic, onto a shoulder, to prevent another accident. Second, you should call 911, noting the location of where you are to help first responders reach you faster.
Staying in your car after an accident is the safest option for you and other road users, but you can exit it if it is on fire or sinking in water.
Third, you should wait for emergency personnel to arrive. The police can set up a perimeter around the crash site and direct traffic, and medical professionals can provide the treatment you need. If you witness a crash on the freeway, keep going and call 911.
Why Should You Stay in Your Car After an Accident?
The following are reasons to remain in your vehicle after an accident:
- To avoid further collisions and reduce the risk of being hit by another vehicle
- To protect yourself from traffic, flying debris, and other hazards that might be on the road
- To assess the extent of the damage to your car and examine your physical condition before coming out
- To keep you from suffering additional injuries, especially if there is sharp metal or broken glass on the crash site
- If it is winter, to keep you warm until help arrives
- To make it easy for first responders to locate you when they arrive at the crash site.
Also, remaining in your car is a way to preserve evidence, which is vital for insurance claims, and it gives you time to put yourself together and reduce your anxiety.
Why You Should Stay in Your Car After an Accident FAQs
If you were involved in a car accident where you had to leave your car, you might have questions about how it affects your compensation. Below are answers to some common questions:
What Happens If I Leave My Car After an Accident?
If you leave your car after a crash, you might endanger yourself, as you risk getting struck by an oncoming vehicle. Staying in your car keeps you safe.
Will Leaving My Car Affect My Car Accident Claim?
Generally, leaving your car will not impact your car accident claim. However, the at-fault party’s insurer might argue that exiting the vehicle aggravated your injuries, so it is better to stay put.
Does Leaving My Car Amount to a Hit-and-Run?
No. Leaving your car does not amount to a hit-and-run as long as you do not leave the accident scene.
How Much Compensation Can I Get After a Car Accident?
After a car accident, you will receive enough compensation to cover your economic and non-economic damages if you suffer severe injuries. What it amounts to varies from case to case. If your wounds are minor, you will only receive payment for your economic damages from your no-fault insurance provider.
Goodman Acker P.C. Represents Clients Injured in Car Accidents
At Goodman Acker P.C., we provide compassionate legal assistance if a negligent driver injures you. We understand you are going through a stressful and traumatic experience. That is why our Detroit car accident attorneys will work hard to help you seek justice and get a fair outcome. Call us at 248-286-8100 to book a free initial consultation.