Your Car Accident Claim: What to Do When
If you have been injured in a car accident that was caused by another driver’s negligence, it isn't easy to know how best to proceed. After all, you are in no condition to take on the insurance company and fight for your rightful compensation. Further, every car accident claim is utterly unique to the unique circumstances involved, which makes knowing what to do when – in your unique situation – extremely difficult. Fortunately, there are a few basics that apply across the board, and that can help you strengthen your car accident claim.
What to Do at the Scene of the Accident
If you are able to gather evidence at the scene of the accident, do so. If you are not, enlist a passenger in your vehicle or a bystander to do so for you. All of the following can help:
Photos of the damage to both vehicles
Wide-angle photographs that show the full layout of the accident
Photos of anything that might have contributed to the accident, such as the effects of inclement weather, impediments to a clear view, or anything else
Photos of your own injuries
Statements from eyewitnesses (and their contact information)
It is also a good idea to jot down everything you can remember about how the accident unfolded. Because memories can fade or morph very quickly, this document can prove very valuable when it comes to supporting the veracity of your claim.
What to Do Immediately after the Accident
After leaving the accident scene, it is time to seek the medical attention you need. If you are offered medical care at the scene, readily accept it. If not, make sure that you get seen by a medical professional as soon as you possibly can after the accident. The fact is that severe injuries do not always present with noticeable symptoms until they are allowed to develop into something much more severe and more difficult to treat effectively. When it comes to your health, always err on the side of caution.
Your Next Best-Step
The first step you should take after obtaining medical attention is reaching out to a dedicated car accident attorney. Getting the compensation to which you are entitled is far too important to leave to chance, and your car accident claim is likely to be as complicated as the car accident was dangerous. Your experienced car accident attorney will skillfully negotiate with the insurance company for compensation that covers your physical, financial, and emotional damages in their entirety.