When you're involved in a car accident, you know what steps to take. But, if your car is involved in a car accident after being stolen, you might not be as sure about the steps as you should be. That's because no one expects to find out that their car has been involved in a car accident while being driven by a thief. If you're in the position of dealing with a theft-related car accident, there are certain steps you'll need to take right away. Here are four steps to help you avoid problems. 

File a Police Report

If your car was involved in an accident after being stolen, it's crucial that you file a police report even if you aren't aware of the theft until after the accident. Filing a police report will ensure that the theft becomes an official part of the accident report. It will also ensure that the person responsible for the theft, and the accident, is charged with those offenses. In addition, filing a police report can also reduce the risk that any injured parties will go after you with personal injury claims. 

Notify Your Insurance Company

If you've discovered that your car crashed after being stolen, you need to notify your insurance company right away. This is especially important if the thief tried to pass off your insurance information as their own. This can happen if you carry your insurance documents in the glove box of your car. The insurance company will need to know about the accident so they can determine liability for it. This will also help ensure that you receive compensation for the damages your car sustained in the accident. 

Hire a Car Accident Attorney

If your car was involved in an accident after being stolen, it's important that you hire a car accident attorney right away. This is especially important if any of the injured parties may be trying to sue you for damages, or if the thief is claiming that they had permission to drive your car. 

Document the Theft

Finally, if a thief crashed your car after stealing it, you'll need to document the theft. Documenting the theft can prove that your car was taken without your permission. Some forms of documentation include witness statements or video surveillance recordings. Once you've obtained the documentation, be sure to provide copies to local law enforcement and to your attorney. 

Don't let the theft of your car destroy your life. If your car was involved in an accident after being stolen, be sure to follow the steps provided above. Contact a car accident lawyer for more information.