Five Ways Your Smartphone Can Help After an Auto Accident

Even hands-free, using electronic devices while driving is known to be dangerous. However, after an accident, any cellphone can help you deal more effectively with the details of your situation. Of course, smartphones are the most helpful when there’s an emergency. Consider the following uses:

• Old-fashioned talking — All phones let you call 911 for emergency help. When you call, try to pinpoint your location as accurately as possible.

• GPS — If you do not know where you are, do not expect police to have the technology to identify your precise location based on the GPS in your smartphone. However, if you have an app installed to locate a missing phone, you can provide them with the information needed to find you from their computers.

• Camera — You are going to need evidence for an insurance claim or potential injury case. Most cellphones allow you to take a lot of pictures, including the position of vehicles after the accident, damage, road conditions and injuries.

• Contact list — Your phone can help emergency personal and hospitals contact your family when you cannot do it. Make sure you have a current In Case of Emergency (ICE) entry in your phone.

• Electronic guidance — All the important car accident procedures may fly out of your head because of the stress of the situation. If you have a car accident app on your phone, it can guide you through the process and keep photos, contact details and other information organized and handy.

Since smartphones also have Internet access, you can even use reputable medical websites to walk you through urgent first aid treatment— but it is best to wait for emergency personnel to arrive at the scene. Additionally, you can look up contact information for a Fort Lauderdale motor vehicle accident lawyer who can help you obtain compensation if you suffered undue injury.