CRUCIAL THINGS TO DO AFTER AN ACCIDENT
by Contributor
(Jun. 5, 2020) — No matter how careful you are on the road, accidents can still happen because of other negligent drivers. Know the steps you should take after a crash.
No matter how careful you are, accidents can still happen on the road because of negligent drivers. And after getting into a crash, you might feel confused, lightheaded, and even angry because of the adrenaline rush. However, arguing with the person who hit you will only cause even more trouble with both law enforcement and your insurance claim. Take a breather and follow these steps instead:
Make Sure Everyone Is Okay
If you have passengers, check on them to see if they’re bleeding or are feeling disoriented. Then, look at yourself in the mirror for any injuries. If any of you are suffering a headache, drowsiness, and ringing in the ears, you might be suffering from a concussion, which is common in incidents like this. Call 911 immediately, especially if someone needs urgent medical care.
Assess the Damage
If your car can still run, try to move it to the side of the road. Put down reflective signs, if you have any, to warn oncoming vehicles about the accident. And if you’re able to make your way outside, assess the damage done to your and the other party’s vehicle. Take lots of pictures of the wreckage done to your car. These will be important when you file an insurance claim.
Contact an Attorney
When it comes to sensitive matters like car crashes, you’ll need an attorney by your side to negotiate with insurance companies and communicate with the police and media. This is especially important if you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, as a good DUI victim lawyer provides expert legal advice and representation in court to ensure you get the medical and monetary compensation you deserve.
Share Information
While you want to keep communication with the other party to a minimum to avoid accidentally admitting guilt or blaming them for the crash, it’s still important to talk to them to exchange contact and vehicle details. It’s best to do this with a police officer or lawyer present. Get the other party’s name, insurance information, and contact details. Ask the officer for the police report number as well. These details will be vital in getting compensation from the other party’s insurance company.
Don’t Settle Too Early
Some injuries, like internal bleeding, can take hours to days to show up. As such, it’s essential to make sure all your medical problems related to the accident are treated before even considering a settlement. And when you do receive an offer, review it carefully with your attorney. This way, you’re sure that the amount is enough to cover your medical bills and lost income due to your injuries and car damage.
Go to Trial, if Needed
If the other party’s insurance company refuses to provide the necessary compensation or if they outright refuse to give any, don’t hesitate to take them to court. With proper and aggressive legal representation, you’ll have a good chance of winning the case.
A car accident can get disorienting, especially if you suffer significant injuries. However, you shouldn’t panic and start arguing immediately with the people involved. Keep calm and follow this checklist. With proper communication and negotiation with law enforcement, the other party, and your insurance companies, you’ll get the compensation you rightly deserve.