Even if you are an incredibly cautious driver, you run the risk of getting into an accident whenever you get behind the wheel of your vehicle. While those collisions can be life-altering, there are some steps that you can take to get back on your feet as quickly as possible.

Always Call the Police

You should immediately call the police unless the accident was nothing more than a minor fender bender with absolutely no injuries. In most states, you are required by law to file a police report if the collision results in any injuries or caused more than a few hundred dollars in damage. When it comes time to determine who is responsible for the accident, the police report is going to be one of the most important pieces of evidence.

Collect Information

The police report should contain all of the basic information regarding the accident, but you might want to do a little looking around on your own. The best way to collect information at the scene of the accident is to pull out your smartphone and take a few photos or videos. You should also get the officer’s name and badge number and the contact information of any witnesses.

Work with an Attorney

If the accident results in any injuries or serious property damage, then you need to consult with an accident lawyer. An experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate the legal system and build a solid case with all of the evidence that you have gathered. Your lawyer can also negotiate with the insurance companies so that you are fairly compensated. Insurance companies are out to make money, and they will usually offer as little as possible.

Stay off Social Media

One of the most common mistakes that people make after an accident is posting information on social media. Posting pictures of the scene or complaining about the situation to your friends and family members might not seem like a big deal, but you should assume that everything you say on those platforms is public information. As a general rule, you need to avoid posting on social media until after the case has been closed.

In addition to these few tips, you must also make sure that you contact your insurance provider immediately after an accident. Most insurance companies require clients to file a claim within a few days of an accident, and you might end up with huge fees if you don’t call them right away.