We are often asked, “What should I do if I have been in a vehicle accident?” There are several things to think about to protect your rights after an accident.
Call 911
Be sure to have a police report completed at the scene of a car accident regardless if anyone is injured and in need of immediate attention or not.
Seek medical attention immediately for any injuries.
Once the vehicles are in a safe place, call an ambulance if someone shows even minor injuries from the accident. You will want to get medical attention for yourself or others right away.
Only speak with your family and law enforcement about the accident.
Do not tell anyone that the accident was your fault, even if you think it might have been.
Do not give a statement to the insurance company about the accident or the injuries that you incurred.
This includes your statement or the other party(s) involved. You might receive a call from the other party’s insurance company. You are not obligated by any law to speak with the insurance company or provide a statement. Often, insurance adjusters attempt to get statements as soon as they can to have frazzled victims say things that can be used against them. Instead of making a statement, you can work with a lawyer who can handle communication with the insurance company on your behalf. They will help prepare you for any statements or depositions you may need to make at a future date.
Do not sign anything unless it is for law enforcement.
Gather information.
If injuries are non-life-threatening, gather information from the other driver and any witnesses. Be sure to obtain names and contact information along with insurance company details. Take note of the responding police department, officer’s name, and badge number.
Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicles involved, and injuries.
Take notes about the time of day, weather conditions, and anything else that might be important.
Contact a personal injury attorney.
There is no charge to have an attorney review your case. A personal injury attorney will be able to gather evidence on your behalf and help you hold the person responsible accountable for their actions. They will also handle all conversations between your car insurance and the at-fault party’s insurance. Contact us today for a free consultation.