A trip to Burlington can take a sudden turn with the screech of metal and the shock of a car accident. In a new city, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Dealing with an accident while traveling adds extra stress. You’re not only handling the crash but also unfamiliar roads and local laws. Staying calm and knowing what to do can make a big difference.
This guide covers the key steps to take after a car accident in Burlington, helping you stay safe, manage the situation, and get back to enjoying your trip. Knowing what to do can ease the stress and ensure you handle everything properly.
- Ensure Safety First
The moments immediately following a collision can be chaotic and confusing. Your first priority should always be safety.
If possible, move your vehicle to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot to avoid blocking traffic on busy Burlington streets like North Avenue or Main Street. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers, and if it’s dark, set up road flares if you have them.
Vermont’s winter weather can create additional hazards, so be particularly cautious if your accident occurs during snowy or icy conditions.
- Seek Medical Attention
Don’t hesitate to call 911 immediately. Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, some injuries may not become apparent until hours or even days later. The stress and adrenaline following an accident can mask pain and other symptoms.
Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention, especially if you experience headaches, dizziness, pain, or stiffness in the hours following the accident.
Keep all medical records and receipts for insurance purposes. If you’re staying at a hotel, the concierge may be able to recommend the nearest appropriate medical facility.
- Contact Local Authorities
Even if the accident seems minor, contacting the Burlington Police Department is essential. An official report provides a clear record of the incident, which can be crucial for insurance claims and legal matters.
Remain at the scene until the police arrive, as leaving prematurely could be considered a hit-and-run. Cooperate fully and provide accurate information without admitting fault.
The police report will serve as an objective account, helping determine liability and supporting your claims process. Taking these steps ensures you handle the situation responsibly.
- Gathering Essential Information
While waiting for the police, exchange information with the other driver(s) involved. Collect the following:
- Full names and contact information
- Insurance company names and policy numbers
- Driver’s license numbers and license plate numbers
- Location of the accident
Be thorough but remain calm and courteous. This isn’t the time to assign blame or argue about what happened.
Don’t forget to take multiple photos from different angles showing the damage to all vehicles involved, the overall accident scene, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. These visual records can be invaluable for insurance claims.
Also, make notes about the accident while the details are fresh in your mind. Include the time, weather conditions, what you were doing before the collision, and any other relevant details.
- Speak with Witnesses
If there were witnesses to the accident, politely ask for their contact information and a brief statement about what they saw. Bystanders can offer independent accounts that may clarify details you might have missed, like the other driver’s actions or the conditions leading up to the collision.
These statements can be valuable for police reports, insurance claims, or legal proceedings, providing unbiased support for your version of events. Witnesses are often willing to help, but it’s important to approach them calmly and respectfully in the aftermath of the accident.
- Notify Your Insurance Provider
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Many companies have 24-hour claims services, and most now offer mobile apps that allow you to start the claims process immediately.
If you’re from out of state, rest assured that your auto insurance policy typically covers you when driving in other states, though coverage details may vary. It’s a good idea to review your policy or speak with your insurer to understand any differences in coverage.
However, remember to only stick to the facts and not admit guilt. Anything you say could be used to determine liability, so avoid speculating about fault or downplaying injuries. Let the investigation reveal what happened.
- Contact the Rental Car Company
If you were driving a rental car, review your rental agreement for accident procedures. Most rental companies require you to report the accident to them immediately, complete an accident report form, and provide the police report number.
The rental company may arrange for a replacement vehicle, depending on your agreement and the extent of damage.
- Consult a Car Accident Lawyer
If the accident was serious or involves significant disputes about fault, consider consulting a local attorney who specializes in motor vehicle accidents.
A local attorney will understand the nuances of Vermont law and can represent your interests if you need to return home before all issues are resolved. Some law firms offer free initial consultations to assess your case.
If you need a Burlington car accident lawyer, DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers is the best choice. They offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case.
- Resume Your Travel Plans
Take an honest assessment of your physical and emotional state after the accident. You may need to adjust your plans to allow for recovery time or to accommodate any limitations resulting from the accident. Consider postponing physically demanding activities, focusing on attractions close to your accommodation, and building in additional rest periods.
Remember that it’s better to enjoy a modified version of your trip than to push yourself too hard after a traumatic event.
Final Thoughts
A car accident in Burlington can disrupt your trip, but handling it properly can keep it from ruining your experience. Focus on safety, gather information, seek medical care, and manage insurance and legal matters to stay on track.
Burlington’s charm is still there, even after an unexpected event. Take time to recover, then ease back into your plans when you’re ready.
How you handle challenges shapes your journey. Stay calm, follow the right steps, and Burlington will be ready to welcome you back.
Image: Unsplash, Sam Buriss
