Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents happen every day across the U.S., and understanding what to do if you’re in one is essential for all drivers. It’s even more important to know how to react and what steps to take if you get injured in a crash. Here is everything you should do after an accident to make sure you can make a successful claim with insurance.

Check for Injuries

After nerves have settled, check to see if anyone is injured. If someone needs emergency services, call 911 immediately. If you have been injured, seek medical attention shortly after the accident. Never wait more than 72 hours after the accident to see a doctor. The later you go, the harder it will be to link the accident to your injury with a doctor’s report.

Call Police

Even if the accident seems minor, you should always call the police. Some states need a police report from the scene of the accident to confirm an insurance claim. You may not realize you are injured directly after the accident, so you should get a police report for your records should you need to file a claim in the future.

Exchange Information 

Get important information from the other driver involved in the accident. This includes their insurance information and how to contact them. Never admit guilt to the other driver or in your statement to police. Only relay the facts.

Take Photos of the Scene

You should collect as much proof as possible from the accident scene, so take pictures of any damage with your phone. Take photos of injuries as well.

Get Witness Statements

If anyone saw the accident happen, speak to them and get their statements. These can be essential in proving who was negligent and who caused the accident. The only way you can get compensation from the other driver’s insurance is proving that they were responsible.

Contact Your Insurance

Inform your insurance agency that the accident has occurred, regardless of who was at fault. Certain states have laws on how long you have to file a claim, and your insurance can tell you the specifics. You can also ask about your policy and what is covered.

Make an Appointment With a Lawyer

If you have any questions or concerns about your case, consider contacting a car accident lawyer, like from David & Philpot, PL. They’ll have a good understanding of your state’s laws and how negligence affects your case. You don’t have to tackle challenging legal avenues alone.