A car accident is, simply put, a life altering event. It is unexpected. It is inconvenient. And, its lasting impact affects a number of individuals. The purpose of this post is to provide you with the necessary information to make the right choices in the unfortunate event that you are in a car accident.
Your health and safety are our number one priority. Immediately following a car accident you, or anyone else in the vicinity, should immediately contact emergency personnel and law enforcement. This serves two very critical purposes. Emergency personnel can address any injuries and provide necessary medical care. While, law enforcement can gather the details of the accident and prepare reports that might be essential at a later time. Regardless of the severity of the accident, always call 9-1-1.
- Contact your insurance provider – If reasonable to do so, this should also be done at the scene of the accident. This will allow you to convey information to your provider about the accident while it is fresh in your mind. Over time, details about the accident become more difficult to remember. The sooner you call your insurance provider, the better.
- Schedule an appointment with a doctor – Even if you received medical attention at the accident scene, underlying injuries might manifest during the time between the accident and your appointment. That is why it is crucial that you see a doctor as soon as you can so that these injuries are identified and remedied. Ask your doctor to keep detailed records regarding your injuries and any potential complications that might arise during your recovery. If you are required to miss work because of your injuries, keep a record of those days.
- Call an attorney – Some might assume that if you only sustained damage to your vehicle, and no personal injuries, that it is unnecessary to contact an attorney. Do not be fooled by this misinformation. An attorney consultation is always a good idea to better understand your rights. The answer may not always be the one you are looking for, or expect, but this information is better had immediately following the accident than years later.
- Keep a record of everything – Regardless of if your hire legal counsel or not, you need to diligently maintain a record of everything related to the accident. Especially any contact that you have with your insurance provider, law enforcement, and a treating physician. If you sign a document, ask for a copy. If you electronically authorize an action, have the agreement sent to you electronically as well. Prepare a folder where you can retain these documents and have it ready for your consultation, should you decide to seek the advice of an attorney.
I know that a car accident is a sensitive and emotionally taxing life event. I am here to help you navigate the legal system following that event, so that you may care for yourself and your family during recovery. My team and I are ready to help. Please give us a call and let us see how we may be of assistance to you.
Suggested tags: Car Accident, Personal Injury, Accident, Insurance, Car Insurance, Emergency, Injury, Physical Injury, Vehicle Accident, Motorist Accident, Uninsured Driver, Driver, Auto Accident