Dealing with a car wreck can be downright stressful. However, taking swift action right after one occurs is key to making sure your rights are protected moving forward. The last thing anyone wants to do post-accident is scramble to remember the details. As such, keeping a level head and following these five simple steps can really make a difference when it comes to getting your due compensation.
1) First Things First: Stay Calm and Get Safe
Right after impact, you will, of course, need to move to safety. Take some deep breaths to collect your wits. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries, but don’t move anyone who’s hurt just yet unless absolutely necessary.
Your next priority is calling emergency responders by giving 911 a call right away if needed. You’ll also want to contact the local police to file an official report of what went down as soon as it is reasonably safe to do so.
2) Start Documenting Everything
With the dust settling, thoroughly document the accident scene. Swap insurance details and contact info with all drivers. Snap photos of vehicle damage from multiple angles. This visual evidence comes in handy later.
Feel free to jot down your account of exactly what happened as well. Those first vivid memories fade fast, so write them down while fresh. Also, get the policy particulars of the adverse driver if their insurance will need to compensate you.
3) Head to The Doctor, Even If You Feel “Fine”
Get yourself checked out as soon as possible, even if you feel okay. Many serious injuries like whiplash have delayed symptoms. It’s critical to create a paper trail linking any post-accident issues to the collision.
So see your doctor within 24 hours. Explain how the crash happened, noting all aches and pains. That medical documentation protects your rights.
4) Contact Car Accident Lawyers for A Consult
With mounting expenses, the last thing you need is endless insurance hassles. Enlist an experienced accident attorney to guide you through the claims process. Most provide free case reviews to evaluate your options.
Seasoned car accident attorneys expertly navigate state laws and statutes of limitations for filing. They’ll comb through policies, ensuring maximum payments. And they handle negotiations so that you can focus on recovery.
5) Keep Meticulous Records
While reams of paperwork feel overwhelming when you’re healing, this documentation paves the way to proper reimbursement. Track every dollar spent on:
- Medical bills and prescription costs
- Vehicle repairs or replacements
- Mileage for injury-related errands and appointments
- Wages lost from time off work
With this proof of damages on hand, file a claim with the insurer of the at-fault driver. Your attorney will request economic damages for medical bills, as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering.
Car accident lawyers ensure your claim amount properly reflects the full extent of damages incurred due to another’s reckless actions behind the wheel.
To Conclude
Car accidents blindside people, and when they happen, the aftermath is chaotic, to say the least. But by taking these critical first steps, you protect your rights and financial future. With legal expertise and organization on your side, you can champion fair compensation while making recovery the priority.
