A car accident can have a massive impact on your life. You can incur property damage or, worse even, get injured badly, injure someone else or lose your loved one. The first moments after the incident are challenging. Yet, they are the most important if you are to protect your rights. So, what should you do if you are involved in a car accident? To answer this, let us look into some critical legal steps you should take after an auto accident.
Stay on the scene
It might look like a minor incident and you are feeling fine but don’t leave the scene. Depending on your state, you should ensure to stay there until law enforcement authority arrives to handle the incident. Staying at the scene of an accident is crucial as you will collect data from the other individuals for an official record. It is also a way of protecting your rights against charges that might crop up. For example, if you leave the scene of the accident before the police arrive, you risk being charged with a hit-and-run count. To avoid that, make sure you stay calm even if you believe you are at fault for the accident.
Tip: Refrain from admitting any fault for the accident until you speak to your attorney.
Call the police
You also must call the police if you can. The police are trained to assess the scene of the accident and make official reports. The police reports and documentation of events leading to the accident and what emerges later are necessary late in court when you make compensation claims for damages and injuries sustained. The police help in piecing together the facts and relieve the burden of handling the scene as victims.
Seek medical attention
This is another critical step that can’t be emphasized enough. Whether or not you have visible injuries, you must visit a doctor immediately. From a medical perspective, some injuries will not be noticed immediately but can worsen if not addressed. For example, internal bleeding can be dangerous and deadly if not resolved immediately. Some injuries can also have a long-term effect on your life. A qualified doctor will help establish this and you can be able to seek justice for every pain and suffering in the present and future.
In the absence of a doctor’s report, it becomes legally challenging to determine how much you should be awarded and the amount you are rightfully deserving. It might also indicate that you are undeserving of any compensation!
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
Speaking to an experienced auto accident attorney is another essential legal step you should take. A good accident lawyer understands the nitty-gritty of the process involved in fighting for your rights. For example, suppose you have been hit by a car while walking. In that case, it is advisable to talk to a pedestrian accident attorney to help protect you against unscrupulous insurance companies. An attorney will also know how to prepare the documents necessary and defend your case even if it goes to court. Enlisting the services of a lawyer will also allow you time to focus on your recuperation process. You will not need to move in and out during court hearings. It is an important legal step to take after an auto accident.
Collect Evidence
If you are conscious and not in great pain, you should take photographs of the scene and the people involved in the accident. Photographs are a great resource of evidence that can be presented as evidence later. You can use your phone to take pictures to document the scene. It would help if you did so before moving anything. If you can, you should also take photos of injuries that include bruises and cuts sustained.
Inform your insurance company
It would be best if you promptly informed your insurance provider about your accident. It is advisable that you cooperate with them but only stick to the essential information. Explain the extent of your injuries and accident but keep your comments general. You are better off letting your attorney do the talking on your behalf. Remember, insurance companies aren’t your friend and top accident attorneys are well-versed with their strategies. So, don’t accept any quick settlements before speaking to your lawyer.
In a nutshell
Accidents can be disorienting and overwhelming. However, you can reduce the loss and damage if you take crucial legal steps immediately. Follow the right steps to protect your health and rights. More important, ensure you speak to a car accident attorney to help guide and defend your rights.
