Steps To Take Immediately After A Car Crash
If you or someone you love has been injured due to the negligence of another, it’s essential that you speak with a qualified, local attorney about your case. A reputable accident lawyer can evaluate the facts of your case and explain your best options for recovering full and fair compensation. Click on the button below for a free case evaluation.
Avoid losing control of emotions – Make sure to breathe and remain calm during this very stressful ordeal. It can be tempting to get angry for another person’s carelessness, responsible for your injury. Take a deep breath and remember to stay calm. Individuals have certain rights afforded to them in the event of an accident due to the carelessness of another. It is important you contact an attorney before you speak with the other party’s insurance adjuster regarding your case. Their goal is to limit your recovery regardless of the circumstances.
Pay attention to your injuries even if the injuries are not readily apparent
The shock and aw effect of a car crash often traumatic in nature leaves driver’s so shocked by the event that the drivers forget to stop and evaluate the resulting injuries. Even if injuries are not readily apparent or the injuries may be perceived as light in nature, it is important for your health and safety to seek medical attention. Fact of the matter is that you may have suffered an injury due to the carelessness of another and you should receive all the proper necessary attention and treatment necessary, to make you whole again without fearing that you will be on the hook for payments.
Receive medical attention if anyone feels any injury from a car crash. Having a report of an auto crash is a better idea than not having any resultant injuries documented. If no one requires medical attention, individuals should still call the non-emergency number for a local law enforcement agency to report the accident.
Take photographs of the scene. If an individual feels well enough to do so and it is safe to do so, individuals should take pictures of the crash scene and anything that may be important concerning the crash.
Collect important documents – The insurance companies and their adjusters are trained to limit your recovery for your losses and may use several tactics from quick settlement offers or other manipulative tactics to limit what you may be rightfully owed. After a car crash occurs, it is paramount to retain the services of an experienced car crash attorney who will be able to help determine whether another party should be held responsible for any resulting injuries, fatalities, or property damage.
Avoid making agreements to not call authorities – Whether you hire a personal injury attorney or not, it is imperative you collect and gather copies of several documents including the accident report, insurance policy details, photos of property damage and resulting injuries, and property damage estimates. The quickest and most efficient way is to collect these documents as an individual’s case proceeds rather than attempting to obtain these documents after the fact.
Contacting your insurance company. You have a duty to report the crash to your own insurance company. It is best to do this only after speaking with your attorney.
Contact a skilled attorney – The insurance companies and their adjusters are trained to limit your recovery for your losses and may use several tactics from quick settlement offers or other manipulative tactics to limit what you may be rightfully owed. After a car crash occurs, it is paramount to retain the services of an experienced car crash attorney who will be able to help determine whether another party should be held responsible for any resulting injuries, fatalities, or property damage.
When to make an insurance claim. After a car wreck, a driver will likely receive a call from the other driver’s insurance company. Drivers should not trust these other insurance companies even if the company is extremely persuasive. Individuals should avoid making any statements to an insurance company or accepting any settlement for any injury until that individual has consulted with an experienced car crash attorney.
