Even if you can imagine better things than a rear-end collision in the middle of the main intersection in morning traffic, it doesn’t help you or the person who caused the accident to lose your nerve. Especially not if it is just sheet metal damage. First of all, of course, make sure that everyone involved in the accident is not injured. Reaching out to an accident attorney is essential.

You can get the best Houston vehicle collision lawyers to handle your case at The Stephens Law Firm. How you handle yourself after a collision matters a lot. You should be careful to gather enough evidence and avoid mistakes that may deny you compensation. Here is how to handle yourself after an accident.

Stay Calm

The most important tip of all comes first: keep calm. An accident is always uncomfortable, but also no reason to be upset. If everyone else is losing their nerve, it needs at least one person to oversee the situation. Be that person, and the better if you can cope with the uncomfortable situation for everyone involved. If necessary, provide first aid and call the emergency services via mobile phone, emergency number, or another telephone nearby.

No Admission of Guilt

You have probably heard it before: silence is golden. The mood is heated, everyone is excited, and the question of guilt often shoots straight to the head. Whether you’re the culprit or not, don’t admit guilt, either verbally or in writing. You don’t have to say anything about it. Once a declaration has been made, it cannot be withdrawn, especially not if it was done in writing. Anything can be used against you in court or any other place. You can wait for your lawyer before giving out any information.

Secure the Accident Site

You have to secure the scene of the accident to warn other road users. To do this, switch on the hazard warning lights and put on your safety vest. The other party involved in the accident will usually do the same. Do not forget to set up the warning triangle, far enough to draw other drivers’ attention to the accident scene and not to provoke further accidents.

 Secure Evidence

Secure evidence, regardless of how badly the vehicles are damaged: Take photos of the scene of the accident, of the accident location of the cars, and the damage to the accident vehicles. Also, make a sketch of the accident. Ideally, you and the other party involved in the accident fill out an accident report in which all details about the course of the accident, i.e., date, time, and location, can be noted. This protocol is signed by both vehicle drivers and does not constitute an admission of guilt or the like. Such an accident protocol is a safety feature in every glove compartment. You can also collect information about the driver and contact insurance.