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What should I do if I've been injured in a car accident?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

As a lawyer, my legal advice for someone who has been injured in a car accident is as follows:

  1. Seek medical attention: The first and foremost thing you should do is seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms until hours or even days after the accident. It is important to get medical attention and documentation of your injuries as soon as possible.

  2. Contact the police: Contact the local police department to report the accident. The police report will be essential in establishing the cause of the accident and identifying who was at fault. Get a copy of the police report for your records.

  3. Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, damages to your vehicle, and any injuries you sustained. Collect contact information from any witnesses present at the scene.

  4. Notify your insurance company: Contact your insurance company to report the accident and provide them with all relevant information. Cooperate with your insurance company and provide all necessary documentation, such as the police report and medical bills.

  5. Consult with a personal injury attorney: If you sustained serious injuries, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is advisable. They can provide legal advice and help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries, damages, and losses.

  6. Keep track of all expenses and losses: Keep a record of all the expenses and losses you have suffered as a result of the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. This will be important in calculating the value of your compensation claim.

In some cases, there may be limitations or exceptions to the above advice depending on the specific circumstances of the accident, such as if the accident occurred on private property or if the other driver involved in the accident does not have sufficient insurance coverage to compensate you for your losses. In such cases, consulting with an attorney is advisable to determine your best course of action.