Accidents can happen to anyone. Even if you’re the most careful driver on the road, it only takes one distracted driver or a momentary lapse of attention from you to jeopardize your safety. The period immediately after a car accident can be scary. Still, there are things you can do to protect yourself and your family after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Here is our guide on what you should do after a car accident.
Document the Scene
It is important to record information like the time, date, location of the incident, names of witnesses, and any other details that may be important. Take photos and videos as well. Capture the amount of damage to your car and the condition of the people involved. Be sure to pay particular attention to any injuries sustained. A dashcam is a worthy investment. It will record what happens in the minutes before and after an accident. This will help in case a person involved disputes your version of events.
Seek Medical Attention
Immediately after the accident, visit a licensed medical professional. They will start by checking to see if you or any passengers have sustained injury. Any cuts or scrapes should be cleaned and disinfected. You’ll need to seek professional medical attention if there are any broken bones. The doctor will document your injuries and note if they believe the injuries result from the accident. They will also provide you with a detailed list of the medications and treatments you need. Make sure to take notes for future reference and get a copy of medical bills for a personal record.
Contact an Attorney
A good auto accident attorney will help you get the maximum compensation for your injuries and secure justice for you and your loved ones. Make sure to have a list of questions ready before meeting with a lawyer. Some companies, like Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, know that it’s best to hire an attorney with experience in personal injury cases. They will be able to review all of the evidence and testimony provided by everyone involved in the incident. They will also know how to present the best case possible in court.
Don’t Speak With Insurance Company Representatives
Most insurance companies will attempt to get you to sign a waiver releasing them from liability. This is called a release of liability, and you should never sign it. Doing so could prevent you from filing a claim against the insurance company promptly, resulting in less compensation. It can even prevent disclosure of any investigation evidence used to determine fault or liability. Your lawyer will tell you what to say and what not to say to insurance adjusters.
Everyone involved in the incident undoubtedly has their own opinion on who was at fault. You must seek legal advice as soon as possible after an accident. This will help ensure that your case is appropriately handled and lead to proper compensation. Contact a personal injury attorney today if you have questions or concerns regarding your situation.
Author information: Anita Ginsburg is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University and now writes articles about health, business, family, and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.
