If you’re injured in an auto accident caused by another driver’s negligence or recklessness, you’re entitled to fair compensation. However, the success of your compensation claim significantly depends on your actions after the crash. Knowing what to do after a vehicle accident is vital for a successful personal injury claim. Outlined below are four things to do after an accident.
1. Partner with a car accident lawyer
A car accident lawyer is invaluable when fighting a personal injury case. Their expertise makes it easier to navigate the complex legal tussle that follows an auto collision. Auto accident attorneys have comprehensive knowledge of federal and state traffic laws and the civil processes of filing successful claims. Although you can represent yourself in a personal injury claim, your insurance company can undervalue or deny your claim, especially if they know you’re unrepresented.
Skilled car accident lawyers have the expertise to negotiate with insurance companies to ensure maximum compensation. They know how to build solid cases that exhibit causation, liability, and the damages suffered due to the accident. An auto accident attorney can also help ensure all your damages are listed, increasing compensation.
2. Call the police
Calling the police following an auto accident is a crucial step that can significantly influence the outcome of a compensation claim or other legal processes that might follow. It helps:
- Ensure compliance and facilitate insurance claims: In most jurisdictions, reporting accidents involving substantial injuries, fatalities, or damage is a legal requirement. A police report is official documentation of the incident, which is crucial for meeting legal obligations. Also, insurance companies usually need a police report to proceed with compensation claims because it helps establish fault, provides details of the injuries and damages suffered, and acts as a crucial piece of evidence when disputing claims
- Protect your rights and interests: A police report contains vital details like witness statements, an initial evaluation of damages and fault, and the other driver’s details, which are vital when seeking compensation for the damages suffered
3. Get immediate medical attention
Getting immediate medical attention after an auto crash is critical to restoring your health and strengthening your personal injury case. Many auto accident injuries, including concussions and whiplash, take time to present symptoms.
Failure to seek immediate medical care can worsen your condition, extending your recovery period and leading to higher medical bills. It can also compromise your compensation claim. Upon receiving medical treatment, your medical reports and receipts can help strengthen your insurance claim and act as evidence for your personal injury lawsuit.
4. Gather evidence
Proving your personal injury case or navigating the insurance claim requires comprehensive, relevant evidence. As such, you collect and preserve proof after an accident to ensure a successful claim and maximum compensation. The types of evidence to collect include:
- Photos of the accident scene and your injuries: They help tell your version of the story while showcasing your injuries’ severity
- Police report: It’s a comprehensive record of the evidence the police collected
- Witness statements: These are statements of bystanders or anyone who witnessed the accident
- Medical bills and records: They’re proof of the injuries you suffered and how you spent on treatment
- The extent of vehicle damage and repair bills to ensure suitable compensation
Endnote
Your actions following a car crash significantly impact the success of your personal injury claim. Understanding the crucial things to do after an auto accident can help ensure maximum compensation.