I’VE HAD AN ACCIDENT. NOW WHAT DO I DO?

Accidents happen quickly, and even a small fender bender has the potential to cause serious personal injury. After a car accident, it is sometimes difficult to think clearly, and you may not be thinking about all the paper work that lies ahead of you. Remembering just a few tips may help you, down the road, in order to seek damages for any injuries.

Seek Medical Help

In a serious accident, you may be treated at the scene by trained professionals and/or taken to the hospital. Even in minor accidents, serious injuries (even traumatic brain injuries) may result, so it is a good idea to get medical help, even if you feel okay at first. Not only will this give you peace of mind insofar as injuries are concerned, it will help you establish the claim if you need to later on.

Cooperate with the police

The police are there to help you. The information that they take down may help you establish a claim.

• Answer questions directly
• Stick to the facts
• Do not admit fault

Be sure that you do not have a contentious or belligerent attitude which may be reflected in the police report.

Record Events

After just a few days, the memories of your accident will fade. It is a good idea to record your version of events.

• Take pictures
• Write down your version of events
• Interview witnesses

With the advent of camera phones, recording the details of any accident is very easy. Should you ever need to recall the events in court; those images will help you tell your story. So be sure that you take ample pictures of the accident.

Contact Insurance

Even if you were not at fault in the accident, you should inform your insurance company. The insurance company has a right to know the extent of the damage and any injuries sustained.

When speaking to an insurance company, whether yours or the representatives of the other party to the accident, it is a good idea to have legal counsel to ensure that you are adequately represented.

Retain an Attorney

Once you get the most serious items on the list taken care of, seek the help of an experienced auto accident attorney, who will help ensure that you meet all paperwork deadlines and statute of limitations requirements. Please feel free to contact our office to find out more about how we can help protect your claim.