A small error behind the wheel can cause a dangerous car accident, and mistakes following your wreck can have a negative impact as well.
If you have been involved in an accident, it’s important to know which steps to take – and which ones to avoid. Read on to learn more!
NEVER: Leave The Scene
Leaving an accident scene could be considered a crime, so never drive away after a crash. Remain on the scene until law enforcement arrives.
NEVER: Avoid Calling 911
Many auto accident victims wrongly assume that they only need to call 911 if there are serious injuries. This is not the case! Even if emergency medical attention is not necessary, the police will need to assess the scene to complete their accident report. This step plays an important role if you decide to pursue legal action.
NEVER: Admit You Are At Fault To Anyone Other Than Your Attorney
Do not apologize or admit that you were responsible for causing the car accident – unless you are speaking to your attorney. Your attorney will handle all communication with the insurance company, acting as your advocate.
NEVER: Fail To Exchange Information
You may be in shock following your car accident, but it is important to exchange information with the other drivers involved. Ask for their contact information as well as driver’s license number, vehicle registration number, and auto insurance company/policy details.
NEVER: Skip Medical Examination
Even seemingly minor injuries may worsen over time, so it is best to visit your doctor as soon as possible. Documentation of any injuries will be helpful if the insurance company tries to dispute your auto accident claim.
NEVER: Fail To Hire A Skilled Attorney
While it is possible to handle your own auto accident claim, it is not recommended. The legal system can be very difficult to navigate, especially while you are recovering from accident injuries. A skilled car accident lawyer can help maximize compensation, offering trusted legal advice each step of the way.
Now that you know what NOT to do, our team has provided a helpful list of steps to take after your auto accident.
Step 1: Call 911 Immediately
Remain on the scene and call 911 immediately to report your accident. When the police arrive, tell them what happened but never admit fault. Be sure to mention any injuries, even minor ones.
Step 2: Exchange Information With Other Parties Retrieve as much information as possible from everyone involved, including witnesses. Ask each person for the following:
Step 3: Document The Scene of The Car Crash Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage and the surrounding area. Also, be sure to get photos of any injuries.
Step 4: Get a Medical Exam As Soon As Possible
Even if you do not believe you are injured, schedule a doctor’s appointment as soon as possible. If you decide to seek compensation for medical treatment in the future, this step is crucial.
Step 5: Hire A Skilled Car Accident Lawyer Do NOT speak to the insurance company. Anything you say could be used against you. That is why it is best to hire an experienced car accident lawyer to handle all communications with the insurance company.
The days and weeks following your car accident may feel overwhelming, but The Mike Hostilo Law Firm is here to help! Let our qualified team handle everything, offering legal advice when you need it most.
Simply call (844) 431-4024 for trusted legal support when you’re in a car accident, motorcycle accident, trucking accident, wrongful death, slip & fall and other personal injury claims, Hostilo can help. Don’t just take our work for it, you can see honest reviews about our genuine legal work for yourself.
So, let’s begin, schedule your free consultation today!
You can find us serving accident injury victims in the following areas:
SOUTH CAROLINA LAWYERS
GEORGIA LAWYERS
(Park of Commerce) Savannah, GA
ALABAMA LAWYERS
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