The first thing after an auto accident is to ensure everyone's safety. After that, you should gather relevant information that might help your auto accident claim. Below are some of the information you should gather.

Driver Information

Get the relevant details of the other driver. Relevant details are those that can help to identify and contact the driver. For example, you should get the driver's:

• Name
• Phone number
• Car insurance company
• License number

The accident can easily turn into a hit-and-run one if you don't get the information and the driver disappears. Also, write down any remarks the driver might make immediately after the crash, especially remarks that might help prove the cause of the accident. For example, a driver who claims not to have seen your car was probably driving while distracted.

Potential Witnesses

Anyone at an accident scene is a potential witness. Examples include:

• Pedestrians
• Other motorists
• Motorcyclists
• Cyclists
• Workers at nearby businesses
• Clients or customers of nearby businesses

Get the names and contacts of such people. Don't bother confirming whether they have relevant information at this point. You or your lawyer will follow up to confirm which of them have credible testimony.

Law Enforcement Officers

Don't leave the accident scene before the police arrive unless you have injuries that require emergency medical care. Call the police if you can. The police will take a brief statement from you and others at the accident scene once they arrive. They will use the information to generate a police report on the accident.

Ensure you get the names and badge numbers of the police officers who respond to the accident. That way, you will be able to follow up and get a copy of the police report.

Date, Time, and Location 

You should also write the date, time, and location of the crash. You may need the information to:

• Prove the accident's occurrence
• Corroborate other peoples, such as witnesses' account of the accident
• Determine the cause of the accident

For example, poor visibility might be a factor in an evening accident on a winding section of the road. Motorists should slow down and allow an ample following distance under such conditions. A driver who fails to do that can cause an accident.

Cars Involved

Get relevant information about all the cars involved in the crash. Relevant information includes:

• Make and model
• Location after the accident
• Damage locations

For example, you should note if the other car suffers damage on its bumper and ends up resting on its side. Accident reconstruction experts and investigators may use the information to determine the accident's cause, extent, and possible injuries, among other things.

Injuries

You might not know all the injuries arising out of an accident immediately. However, some of the injuries may be visible. Note these visible injuries for proof later. For example, a gash on the forehead, pain on the wrist, or a bloody shirt can prove your injuries. You can also take pictures of these visible injuries for documentary proof.

Damages

Lastly, don't leave out any damages the accident might cause. Your notes should include:

• Damages to the cars
• Damages to personal properties you might have had in the car, such as laptop or bags
• Damages to nearby properties, such as guardrails or buildings

Again, you taking pictures of the damage is a good way to record them. You can use the information to prove the accident and your damages' value.

Gather as much information as possible, but don't fret if you don't get everything you need. The shock and confusion of the accident might hinder your efforts. Contact Owen Law Firm with the information you have.