A car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious crash, you may feel shaken, confused, or even angry.
But what you do in the moments after the accident can have a big impact on your health, safety, and legal rights.
Following the proper steps will keep you from being unjustly blamed, obtain your just compensation, and prevent you from doing something illegal.
This article will walk you through what to do right after an automobile accident, how to deal with insurance firms, and why legal assistance may be needed.
Check for Injuries and Call for Help
Your initial concern following a car accident is safety. Inspect yourself and your passengers for injuries. If someone is injured, call 911 right away.
Even if injuries appear minor, it’s still advisable to seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not present symptoms immediately.
If you can do so safely, check on the other passengers and driver. If they need assistance, call emergency services.
Never attempt to move an unconscious or injured person unless they are in immediate danger, such as if there is a fire.
In South Carolina, If you’ve been hurt, it’s wise to speak with a personal injury lawyer as quickly as possible. A lawyer will be able to protect your rights and ensure you’re not exploited by insurance firms.
A Personal Injury Attorney South Carolina will assist you in knowing your rights and what your options are.
They can walk you through the legal process, ensuring that you do not make any errors that may damage your case.
Insurance companies will often make the lowest payment they can on claims. They may try to get you to settle quickly before you understand the full scope of your injuries.
A lawyer can negotiate for a proper settlement and represent you if you need to pursue a lawsuit.
Contact Law Enforcement
Even if the accident looks minor, call the police. A police report can be very valuable evidence if you have to make an insurance claim or go to court.
The officer will take photos of the scene, take witness statements, and issue an official report of the police’s findings.
Be honest when talking to the police but do not guess about what occurred. Do not admit fault. Let the officer get all the information he or she needs. If the police do not arrive at the scene, you might need to make a report at the nearest police station.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re not severely injured and it’s safe to do so, gather evidence as possible. Take clear photographs of the accident scene, such as the cars, road surfaces, road signs, and any visible injuries.
Swap contact and insurance details with the other driver. Obtain their name, phone number, license plate number, driver’s license, and insurance information. If witnesses are present, request their contact details if you need their statements later.
Also, jot down information regarding the accident as it is still fresh in your mind. Mention the time, date, place, weather, and what you were doing just before the accident.
Seek Medical Attention Even If You Feel Fine
In some injuries, you won’t be able to tell immediately. You may feel well right after the accident, but adrenaline masks pain and discomfort. Getting to see a doctor promptly can diagnose those injuries that tend to worsen with time.
Having records from soon after the accident can also come in handy if you have to make a claim. Lawyers and insurance companies will question your injuries if you wait too long to seek medical attention.
Notify Your Insurance Company
As a result of an accident, your insurance company has to be contacted immediately. Many insurance policies compel you to make a report concerning accidents within some time limit. Delaying means that your claim could be denied.
When you talk to your insurance company, remain factual. Do not take fault or provide excessive information before you know what occurred. Insurance companies can use your words against you to reduce your payment.
If the other driver’s insurance company calls you, be careful. You don’t have to provide them with a statement immediately. It’s wise to consult a lawyer first before talking with them regarding the accident.
Avoid Talking About the Accidents on Social Media
It might be tempting to share details about your accident on social media, but this can backfire. Insurance companies and lawyers often check social media for information that could be used against you. Even an innocent post can be misinterpreted and harm your case.
To be protected, avoid taking pictures, leaving comments, or making any statements regarding the accident. Never share your injury details or any state you find yourself in. The best idea is to be quiet online until the case gets decided.
Keep Records of Everything
Record-keeping is essential in safeguarding your rights after a crash. Hold duplicates of all medical bills, records, and receipts of treatment.
Keep all correspondence with attorneys and insurance firms. Document if you had to take time off work as a result of the injuries. Log your lost income.
Having well-organized records will make it simpler to establish your case in case you must bring a claim or lawsuit. The more proof you possess, the better your case will be.
Be Careful About Accepting a Quick Settlement
Insurance companies may offer you a settlement soon after the accident. While it might be tempting to accept, these initial offers are often too low to cover all your expenses.
Once you receive a settlement offer, you are not able to come back asking for more. Before you ever sign anything, make sure that you know your complete cost for injuries, care, and treatments. A legal professional can aid in deciding if a settlement agreement is reasonable or not.
Conclusion
A car crash can turn your life around, but the right action can safeguard your rights and help you receive the assistance you deserve.
Always put safety first, report the accident, and get medical treatment. Be careful when dealing with insurance companies, and consider consulting a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
By understanding what to do in case of a car accident, you can save yourself from unjust blame and monetary loss.
Following these steps will assist you in recovering physically and financially, so you can proceed confidently.
FAQs
1. How long do I have to file a car accident claim?
The statute of limitations for filing a claim varies based on your state’s laws. In most states, you have two to three years to file a lawsuit, but it’s always better to act quickly.
2. Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes, but the amount you can recover might be lower depending on your degree of fault. Certain states have legislation that puts caps on awards if you are more than 50% at fault.
3. What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
If the other driver is not insured, you might still have recourse. Your policy could pay for damages if you carry uninsured motorist coverage.
