What Should You Do Immediately After a Car Accident?
When you have been involved in a car accident, the last thing you are thinking of is a lawsuit. However, there are some things you should be doing right after the crash to ensure you are protected and cared for. Do you know what you should do immediately after a car accident?
The Patient's Law Firm covers car accidents with care, expert knowledge, experience, and precision.
With millions of auto accidents in the United States each year, you do not want to be one of the many injured who falls victim to the insurance companies. Our Firm will be sure you do not get taken advantage of and get the compensation you need. In this process, our team will provide the following guidance and services:
- We will assist you in gathering all critical evidence.
- Draw up and discuss the demand letter with you for your settlement needs.
- And we go the distance to take on the insurance company when necessary.
That said, here are a few things for you to keep in mind before an accident is even a thought.
Being Prepared Before a Car Accident is Key
No one plans to be in a car accident. Unfortunately, they tend to happen at the worst time possible. Being prepared is the best way to protect you and your loved ones if you ever get into an accident.
- Keep Relevant Information in the Car. You will want to have the paperwork easily located in the case of an accident, especially if you cannot reach it. The glove box is the first place the professionals will look to help you out. Have registration and proof of auto insurance in the box. Then, it is an additional practice to store a copy of your medical insurance card, important medical information (like allergies, medicines you take, and the hospital and doctor of preference) for you and your family members. Any help you can give EMTs and police is beneficial in times of crisis.
- Carry Emergency Contact Information. When you carry contact information in your wallet or purse, first responders can act faster on your behalf.
- Be Emergency Ready for Your Vehicle. Keep items like a First Aid kit, flares, window escape hammers, and seatbelt cutters handy. If you live in a cold part of the country, you may even want to carry a warm blanket in the car.
- Auto Insurance is Critical. Ensure your car is insured with the correct coverage.
But what do you need to do immediately after a car accident?
Immediately After a Car Accident
The following is a guide we would give to our own family members. In the event of a car wreck, so much can be difficult and misconstrued. Taking the appropriate precautions and following this procedure will help you proceed after the fact.
- Responsibility: Please, never drive away from an accident, no matter how minor you may think it was.
- Then, Safety First: Pull the car over to a safe location if you can move it. If not, please get out of the vehicle safely.
- Most importantly, identify whether you are injured. Then recognize those in your vehicle and check them for injury. Then, call 911 if anyone is injured.
If there are injuries, you will need to keep a record of the following.
- Work missed
- Doctor’s appointments
- Hospitalizations
- Surgery
- and Rehabilitation
All these details should be recorded while dealing with needing car repairs or perhaps a new car. It is a lot to absorb.
We know there is a lot to think about when you have just been in a car accident. That is why an experienced auto accident attorney is there for you. We aim to make the process as easy for you as possible not to endure any further suffering.
Still on the scene, and once all your passengers are accounted for, you can proceed to the list below.
Actions To Take After A Car Accident
1. Always contact the police and have them write up a report. Even when there are no apparent injuries, it is good to call for a damage report and record of the incident. When on the scene, ask for the officer’s name and badge number for future reference.
2. Document the car accident. Take photos of the scene, marks left on the ground, if any, and all vehicles involved. Close in on any damage to either car and any injuries as well.
3. Get the names, phone numbers, and driver’s license numbers of each driver involved and any witnesses. Usually, the officer will collect this information, but proactive involvement is ok if both parties are willing and able. Never approach a person who is unwilling to communicate.
4. When speaking with the officer who arrives, give an honest account, and no more, or no less. If you do not remember, never embellish. Just give what you know at the time. The truth is the best policy.
5. Seek medical treatment immediately—your health and wellness if the most critical concern. Often the injuries do not show up until the following day. Be sure to keep a record of how you are feeling and report these feelings to your doctor.
6. Contact an attorney as soon as you can. This may be the second most crucial step other than your health. Your attorney will help ensure your rights and protect the evidence. It is essential that individuals not give a statement to the insurance company before consulting with your attorney. That way, you know you always have someone in your corner.
7. Let your insurance company know an accident has occurred but be brief until you have all your faculties together and lawyer representation secured. You never want the story mixed up due to panic or confusion.
8. Avoid giving your insurance company a statement until you are clear in your mind and have contacted your attorney. The insurance company may be on the up and up. But some are simply there to make a big buck. In the end, they are a business. Your lawyer had your best interest in mind. After all, that is how we operate.
9. Please don’t sign any papers from your insurance company until your lawyer has looked them over. Again, your lawyer will look over every crossed T and every dotted I. We are here to ensure you are no one takes advantage of you and those you love. We are in your corner.
When involved in an accident, the most experienced drivers can be left in a daze. When you’ve been in an accident, seek advice from those who stand to gain a reputation for helpfulness, not scavenging. Contact your personal attorney, The Patient's Law Firm.
The Patient's Law Firm have been representing auto accidents in Florida with great success for 32 years. Need a lawyer? Contact The Patient's Law Firm.
Trust Your Lawyer for the Best Guidance
When an unfortunate auto accident occurs, you want an experienced attorney who can represent your interests fairly and compassionately.
With The Patient's Law Firm, you’ll experience caring personal attention, legal and subject matter expertise, and trial experience that leads to results.
If you have been the victim of an auto accident and need help sorting out the details, give The Patient's Law Firm a call. We are here for you and will be by your side the whole way through.
