If you have been in a car accident, it is natural to be consumed by stress and anxiety. You will likely have many questions, especially if you are the one who is injured. If you have been involved in a car accident, this article shares some tips to avoid any mistakes and protect your right to legal compensation for any damage that may have been caused.
1. Don’t Leave the Scene
Regardless of how minor the accident may appear to be, it’s imperative that you remain at the scene afterwards. It’s illegal to leave the scene of an accident, and you need to be present in order to give your account of what happened to police and medical personnel.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Car accidents can cause severe and traumatic injuries, like torn muscles or broken bones. Some injuries may not be apparent right away, such as soft tissue damage or internal bleeding. Seeking immediate medical attention is essential for protecting your health following a car accident. Going to a hospital or seeing a medical professionalwould be your best option, as documentation from your medical injuries might help you in recovering the total and fair compensation you deserve.
3. Take High Quality Photographs
One of the best ways to support your auto accident claim is by taking high quality photographs of your injuries, the car wreck, and the other vehicle involved. However, avoid posting these photos on social media, as this can potentially harm your claim.
4. Collect Information
Be sure to collect any and all relevant information after your accident, such as the other driver’s name, phone number, address, insurance number, driver’s license number, and vehicle information. Take notes of the date, time, location, and any relevant landmarks to strengthen your case.
5. Contact the Police
It is necessary to call the police after a car crash to help build your car accident claim. A police report will verify the proof of the accident and document those who were involved to your insurance company. If you do not reach out to the police, it will be your word against the offender, which may complicate matters when it comes time to pursue your claim.
6. Consult a Car Accident Attorney
Be sure to contact a professional car accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident occurs. Dennis Hernandez & Associates provides a free case evaluation to discuss your legal rights and options following a car accident. Do not give any statement to your car insurance company without consulting your personal injury or car accident lawyer first.
Insurance companies may try to deny your car accident claim or lower your settlement offer, so you must be careful when dealing with your insurance company. Protect your auto accident lawsuit by pursuing legal help.
Endnote
Being in a car accident can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Keep in mind that you do not have much time from the date of the car accident to file a lawsuit and seek compensation for the injuries you are entitled to.