More than 5 million car accidents occur annually in the United States. They may cause property damage, catastrophic injuries, and even death. If you travel around frequently, you could get involved in an auto accident. For instance, you might witness a crash, hit a vehicle, or become a victim of another driver’s rash driving. Regardless of the case, the priority after an auto accident is to ensure the safety of everyone involved in it. While remaining calm and composed, you should seek medical attention for those injured. Another significant step is to determine whether or not you were at fault for the accident. But when you or your loved one get involved in a car accident you should follow a few steps.
Steps You Should Take Following a Car Accident
Here is a discussion of all the crucial steps you should take when you are involved in a car accident:
1. Helping hand
If involved in a car accident, you are legally required to stop at the scene as soon as possible. Check yourself and other people on the spot for injuries. Even if the accident is minor, avoid fleeing the scene because doing so could result in legal action against you. Additionally, maintain your composure and avoid indulging in an absurd argument with the other driver. On the contrary, lend a helping hand by assisting those injured and calling for emergency services. It may involve dialing 911 or seeking an ambulance if anyone needs medical aid.
2. Report the incident
If the vehicles involved in the accident are drivable, move them to a safe place off the road to avoid further accidents. The next step is to notify the authorities (particularly the police) about the incident. Regardless of the accident’s severity, police reporting is necessary to avoid legal complications. The police report will assist you in proving your case and making things easier. When you call the police, inform them about your location and give them a brief account of the crash. Officers will arrive on the scene and may ask standard questions while inspecting the damage. You should provide them with all information they ask, but avoid admitting fault or talking about distracted driving. Remember that any information you provide may be recorded and used in the trial or settlement of your insurance claim.
3. Gather evidence
Many people choose to stop and offer assistance when they are involved in a car accident. They could be nearby building occupants, pedestrians, drivers of other vehicles, passengers, or emergency personnel. As eyewitnesses, they can provide valuable information that helps explain how the collision occurred and who was at fault. It can give the insurance companies and jury insight into the accident scene.
Even if no witnesses are available, or if you are the only person who witnessed the accident, write down every detail that comes to mind. Spare some time photographing the accident scene, including the surroundings, skid marks, road signs, damaged vehicles, and any casualties. Also, look for cameras that may have captured the car accident scene. For example, a camera in a nearby business, residential street, or traffic/red light could give a glimpse of the incident. A good video shot from the right angle is highly beneficial to prove your claim.
4. Informing insurance company
Generally, insurance contracts require that the injured person contact the insurance company following an injury or a car accident. So, after attending to your injuries, one of the most crucial things you can do is to inform your insurance provider that you were in an accident. However, always exercise caution when giving them accident-related information. Even though you share liability to some extent, avoid claiming official responsibility for it. Avoid discussing what you did before the collision and who you believe was at fault. The insurance company could use the details against you and lower the claimed amount. So, the point is to notify the authorities that an accident occurred and requires a claim.
5. Seek legal advice
After a car accident, you should seek legal counsel to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Following an accident, it can be challenging to understand state laws, establish liability, and negotiate with the insurance company to obtain fair compensation. A lawyer can help you explore options, determine liability, and bargain with insurance companies. If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, an attorney can assist you in bringing a lawsuit to recover damages. A legal adviser is also essential for comprehending the official formalities and guiding you through each step. Eventually, you successfully navigate the complexities of a car accident case with the help of an experienced attorney.
Why choose our car accident attorney?
After a road accident, knowing the governing laws related to auto accidents in your state is pertinent. The state laws may significantly affect your case. The entire legal process can be complex, and you may get lost in the legalese and procedures. So, it’s wise to seek assistance from an experienced attorney. Our proficient lawyers at Phillips Law Offices can help you understand the process and guide you through each step. They will inform you of your rights and the actions you should take to defend them. Know the potential benefits of hiring our legal services.
Establishing liability
Our attorney can assist in establishing liability in a car accident case by thoroughly investigating the specific facts. They can visit the accident spot, speak with witnesses, review police reports, and examine other evidence. The lawyer will consider factors like the speed of both vehicles, road conditions, driving behavior, and any applicable traffic laws or regulations. Based on the evidence gathered, the attorney will identify the party or parties responsible for causing the accident. This decision-making process might involve listing various contributing factors or judging the extent of liability owed by each party. The lawyer can then use this information to plead in court or to negotiate a settlement to obtain payment for the damages and injuries sustained in the incident.
Negotiating for insurance
Before you submit insurance claims, make an informed decision by consulting our skilled car accident attorney. Our qualified lawyers at Phillips Law Offices will evaluate your case and help you understand any loopholes. We can collect information and compile all-required official files to prove your point. It includes documenting medical records, witness statements, vehicle repair invoices, and other paperwork. This way, we will present a compelling case before the insurance company, explaining why you should get a particular sum.
Our attorney is invaluable to your case because we increase your chances of success. We are familiar with the tactics employed by most insurance companies to reduce accidental reimbursement. As your representatives, we can speak with the insurance provider and lead you through the negotiation process. If the company resists, they can take your accident case to court and represent you in litigation. Eventually, with an attorney, you can improve your chances of obtaining reasonable compensation for your injuries, lost wages, property loss, and other accident-related damages.
Full support
Our personal injury attorneys are professionals and can resolve various legal matters, including car accidents. Since they acknowledge the legal system, they serve as advocates and advisors. Not only this, lawyers offer emotional support to those who may be going through a difficult time. They tirelessly work to safeguard your interests and receive the best possible outcome when you are involved in a car accident.
Our legal firm can confidently guide you throughout the legal process. We will help you explore options and navigate through the complex legal procedure. As representatives, we can act on your behalf in negotiations, court hearings, and other legal proceedings. Eventually, we can help protect your right and ensure you receive fair treatment under the law.
Ready for trial
Our proficient car accident attorney can prepare you for trial if your case undergoes litigation. We have a track record of resolving such matters. We will first determine potential weaknesses in your case and work to highlight your point. We will gather all required evidence, including witness statements, police reports, and medical bills, to build a solid case in your favor. Besides, we tend to prepare your testimony and any other witnesses called to testify on your behalf.
We will also assist you in anticipating questions from opposing counsel and developing acceptable responses to those questions. This way, our auto accident lawyer will play a vital role in creating a comprehensive settlement plan. Initially, they work to resolve the case before it goes to trial. It could involve bargaining with the insurance company or other parties involved in the accident.
Work with specialists
Depending on the complexity of your case, car accident attorneys can go for expert advice also. They can work closely with specialists to prove the negligence of the offenders and build a strong case. For instance, they may seek accident reconstructionists, specialists who use advanced techniques to recreate the accident scene and determine how the collision occurred. They can provide material facts, including driving speed, braking, and vehicle position.
Likewise, lawyers can work with medical professionals to establish the extent of your wounds sustained due to the accident. It can include doctors, nurses, and physical therapists who can provide expert testimony on the injuries and recommended treatment. They can also suggest potential long-term consequences of your medical condition.
Other specialists that attorneys may work with include vocational experts and economists. They can determine your financial costs, working capacity, lost wages, and all medical expenses related to the accident. With a team of specialists, car accident attorneys can present a clear and compelling case. Whether your case settles with insurance companies or goes to court, hiring a skilled attorney is beneficial for receiving the deserving compensation.
Final words: What to do after a car accident?
When you get involved in a car accident, it can be traumatic, and the first step is to seek medical attention for injuries, even if mild. After ensuring safety, you should contact our legal firm to evaluate your case and explore options. Our experienced car accident attorneys at Phillips Law Offices play a significant role in the legal system as representatives and supporters for our clients.
We can help you navigate the complex legal system, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation for your injuries. With us, you can focus on your recovery without worrying about the legal aspects of your auto accident case. Contact us now at (312) 598-0917 and get a free consultation.
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