Few people imagine that they will be involved in a car accident. But given the dangers of driving, this traumatic event is part of our everyday reality. That is why it is important to know what to expect in the minutes, days, and months after a car crash.
Having a plan can help you handle the obstacles following a car accident. It will also ensure that you are best prepared to file a claim and pursue compensation if seriously injured.
What To Do Immediately After a Car Accident
Keep the below steps in mind immediately following a car accident:
- Identify injuries: After a collision you should ensure that you are safe and make note of any injuries. If you have sustained a severe injury, you will need immediate medical attention. In this case, it is essential to call 911 for an ambulance for yourself or someone else who is injured.
- File a police report: Calling the police to the scene of the car accident will allow you to file a police report. The officer will ask you questions about the collision to complete the report. It is important to be cooperative and clear so that the facts are documented accurately. You may need this report to file a claim.
- Gather and document car accident information: If conditions are safe, record information regarding the scene of the car accident. This may include noting the license plate numbers and contact information of the drivers, passengers, and bystanders. If possible, photograph all vehicles involved in the car crash to document damage. These photos may serve as valuable evidence in the future.
The Days Following a Car Accident
In the first few days after a car accident, you should contact your doctor and schedule an appointment. This is important whether or not you required emergency medical care. A medical professional can evaluate you for health problems that do not cause immediate symptoms, such as a concussion or whiplash.
Receiving prompt medical treatment will allow you to keep a record of your medical care following the car accident. You should also notify your insurance company as quickly as possible.
In the weeks following a car accident, you may be contacted by an investigator hired by the at-fault driver’s insurance company. You should be cautious when interacting with the at-fault driver’s insurance, or anyone representing them. This insurance company is responsible for paying for damage caused by the at-fault driver’s negligence. Because insurance companies are looking to save money, they will sometimes attempt to make what is known as a “nuisance offer” (usually of a few thousand dollars) to protect the insured and avoid paying a higher sum of money. If you accept one of these nuisance offers, you may be prevented from asserting your legal rights down the line. This is why you should be very careful.
Steps to Take if You Are Injured in a Car Accident
Car accidents may result in severe injuries that can impact your daily life. These injuries can cause serious or chronic pain, prevent you from working, and burden you with overwhelming medical bills. In this case, you should consider hiring a personal injury lawyer to help you seek the compensation you deserve.
An attorney who is experienced with car accident cases can guide you through the process of filing the appropriate paperwork to make a claim or negotiate a settlement through the at-fault insurance company. To handle your claim, your lawyer will use the evidence you have gathered to support your claim. That is why knowing what to do after a car accident can help prepare you for this process.
Hurt in a Car? Call William Mattar
If you have suffered a serious injury from a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact our experienced car accident lawyers at William Mattar law offices today at (844) 444-444.