Skip to content
Ask a question
All posts

What should I do if I am injured in a car accident?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  2 minute read
As an attorney, my advice to anyone who is injured in a car accident would be as follows: 1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine, it is always a good idea to visit a doctor, as some injuries may not show up immediately. Additionally, if you are injured and require medical attention, seek immediate medical attention. This will ensure that your injuries are properly documented and treated. 2. Contact the Police: If the accident is serious, you should contact the police so that they can file a report. It's important to have an official record of what happened. 3. Exchange Information: Exchange information with the other driver. Get their name, contact information, driver's license number, insurance policy number, and license plate number. Also, ask for contact information from any witnesses. 4. Document the Accident: If you are physically able, take photos of the accident scene, the damage to your vehicle, and your injuries. This will be helpful evidence if you decide to file a claim. 5. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company: As soon as possible, report the accident to your insurance company. The company may send an adjuster to survey the damage. 6. Consult an Attorney: Speaking with an attorney who specializes in personal injury law is a wise decision. An attorney can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you if you decide to file a lawsuit. Limitations or exceptions to the advice given: It's essential to note that each state has different laws regarding car accidents. Additionally, some car accident cases have a statute of limitations that can vary by state. Therefore, it's crucial to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible after an accident to avoid missing any deadlines for filing a claim. Suggested further action: If you plan to file a lawsuit, you should gather evidence such as medical bills, medical records, lost wages, etc., which will help you calculate damages. Consult with an attorney to determine what specific evidence is needed in your case.

As an attorney, my advice to anyone who is injured in a car accident would be as follows:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine, it is always a good idea to visit a doctor, as some injuries may not show up immediately. Additionally, if you are injured and require medical attention, seek immediate medical attention. This will ensure that your injuries are properly documented and treated.
  2. Contact the Police: If the accident is serious, you should contact the police so that they can file a report. It's important to have an official record of what happened.
  3. Exchange Information: Exchange information with the other driver. Get their name, contact information, driver's license number, insurance policy number, and license plate number. Also, ask for contact information from any witnesses.
  4. Document the Accident: If you are physically able, take photos of the accident scene, the damage to your vehicle, and your injuries. This will be helpful evidence if you decide to file a claim.
  5. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company: As soon as possible, report the accident to your insurance company. The company may send an adjuster to survey the damage.
  6. Consult an Attorney: Speaking with an attorney who specializes in personal injury law is a wise decision. An attorney can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you if you decide to file a lawsuit.

Limitations or exceptions to the advice given:

It's essential to note that each state has different laws regarding car accidents. Additionally, some car accident cases have a statute of limitations that can vary by state. Therefore, it's crucial to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible after an accident to avoid missing any deadlines for filing a claim.

Suggested further action:

If you plan to file a lawsuit, you should gather evidence such as medical bills, medical records, lost wages, etc., which will help you calculate damages. Consult with an attorney to determine what specific evidence is needed in your case.