Steps To Take After a Personal Injury Accident
The moments after an accident are precious because the decisions you make in those moments can have consequences which last long after the insurance information has been exchanged. Knowing what to do and how to handle yourself can save you tons of time, money, and prevent headaches down the road. If you decide to file a claim for personal injury and your case goes to trial, taking the correct actions after the initial accident can benefit you greatly when it comes time to fully pursue your claim. Here are some of the basics to keep in mind, to the best of your ability, after the accident has just happened.
First, always remember to seek medical attention, even if you feel totally fine in the moment. An accident, even a small one, exerts trauma on the human body. Everyone reacts differently to these accidents, and even when we feel we have been uninjured, it is always possible that something has been damaged internally, or a future problem triggered, that will not manifest itself until later. Receiving medical attention as soon as possible after an accident can help detect these types of injuries, and diagnosing them sooner, before any claims are filed, will help you receive just compensation for them. If you wait to see a medical professional for apparent or latent injuries, it is possible you will be unable to collect for the costs of dealing with these injuries later on. Don’t short change yourself, and make sure you receive the damages you are owed for the injuries you have sustained, and make sure you address them right away.
Second, if a police officer has not already arrived on the scene, call one to the scene as soon as you can. Statements need to be taken and a survey of the scene must be instituted. Additionally, if there are hazards to yourself or any other drivers or bystanders, the police can recognize the dangers and take appropriate actions to ensure everyone’s safety. By bringing the police to the scene of the accident and following the proper procedures thereafter, you case is helped immensely by your cooperation and your honesty. If and when any emergency staff arrive on the scene, make sure you fully comply with all of their requests as well. Not doing so can compromise your statements, and even the status of the severity of your injuries.
Third, get as much information from all parties involved as you can. Take down license plate numbers, makes and models of cars, names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information. If the particular of your personal injury incident was not a car accident but something else like a dog bite, make sure to get personal information from the owner, and any available license information as well.
Fourth, if there are any witnesses on the scene approach them and request their contact information as well. They may be potential witnesses to a suit in your favor should you decide to pursue a claim.
Fifth, make sure to contact your insurance agent. It is never a fun process dealing with insurance agencies, but it is a necessary one. It will serve you well in the long run as it shows honesty, cooperation, and an understanding of the necessity of the process.
Sixth, take pictures, if you have a camera. The more accurate a picture of the scene of the accident, the stronger your case will be with the insurance companies, law enforcement, and any judge or jury that will help determine the outcome of your case.
Finally, hire a good attorney. Personal injury lawyers are everywhere, so zero in on one that makes you feel comfortable, demonstrates knowledge and experience in the area of law pertaining to your incident, and that has a good track record of success and client satisfaction. If you live in Los Angeles, Orange County, or other neighboring areas in southern California, you should contact the California Attorney Group as soon as possible to help you get the compensation you are owed.
