Car Accident Attorney

Every day in the United States, car accidents leave people with injuries. Some of these injuries will heal over time, while others become permanent disabilities. Either way, the medical bills, lost wages due to being unable to work, and mental and physical suffering are costly expenses that will add up. Knowing how to deal with a car accident right after it has happened and understanding where to go next is key in filing a claim that gets you fairly compensated for your injuries. Here are five important steps to follow after an accident.

• Check for Injuries and Call the Police

Check to make sure that no one is seriously hurt, and get them emergency assistance if they are. You should always report the accident to the police, even if the other person involved in the accident does not want to. Police reports can help establish fault in an accident, and insurance companies may use that when determining the amount of the claim.

• Gather Evidence 

Exchange information with the other driver. This includes names, contact information, and insurance. You want to be able to contact them and their insurance company to file a claim if they were at fault for the accident. Take pictures of the scene of the accident and make notes of what happened.

• Seek Medical Attention 

Even if you don’t think you are injured, seek medical attention no later than 72 hours after the accident. You’ll want the doctor’s report to verify that your injuries are linked to the crash. Without it, an insurance company has more room to wiggle out of paying you your dues.

• Inform Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company to let them know about the accident. Report the facts of what happened, but don’t include your opinion. You don’t want to give anyone a reason to doubt that you were innocent in causing the crash.

• Contact an Attorney 

Once you’ve filed a claim with the other driver’s insurance, their insurance will send a claim adjuster to get your side of the story. This might sound like a positive thing, but the adjuster is likely looking for parts of your story that make you look partially negligent as well. You don’t have to talk to an adjuster without speaking to a lawyer first. An experienced lawyer, can guide you on what to say, and can represent you should you need more help.