Car accidents, irrespective of where they occur, cause significant harm to the victims physically, financially, and psychologically.
Luckily, victims of car accidents resulting from the negligence of other drivers or other parties can file a claim against the at-fault party to recover compensation.
While you can never be fully prepared for an accident, having a basic understanding of what to do if it occurs can make an enormous difference in your outcomes. This guide offers tips for getting the most out of your car accident claim.
Get Medical Attention
Most people assume that life-threatening injuries are always apparent. The truth is, they are not. For example, it is possible to suffer a life-threatening brain bleed and not feel it at first. Getting medical attention immediately after an accident is always advisable to be safe.
The best idea is to call 911. Often, paramedics will check your vitals, which helps them detect unapparent injuries. If they deem your injuries significant, they can make the call to transport you to the hospital.
If your injuries are not as severe, they can let you choose. Either way, ensure you get medical attention as soon as possible and not longer than 72 hours.
Call the Police
In most cases, police will arrive alongside paramedics when you call 911. When they do, they will document the scene by taking pictures, recording witness accounts, collecting the details of the persons involved, and any other details relating to the accident.
A police statement is not mandatory but is necessary for protecting your legal rights in a dispute. There are situations where you may not record a statement, for example, when your injuries are severe because paramedics will prioritize getting you to the ER. Under such circumstances, ensure you do it as soon as possible for the record.
Gather Evidence
The police will often take minutes before getting to the scene. You can use that opportunity for personal scene documentation. This ensures you capture every detail of the accident before it is tampered with.
“Take some pictures and record a video of the scene. Some areas you will need to pay attention to in your documentation are vehicle damage, skid marks on the road, vehicle positions, and injuries,” says attorney Charles Boyk.
This is also the best time to gather witness testimonies and contact information. It may not be possible to gather evidence if you have suffered severe injuries. Under such circumstances, you can ask onlookers to document it for you or have your lawyer work with what they can get later.
Get a Lawyer
Legal matters may not be among your strong points. So, do not attempt to handle a claim on your own unless your damages are insignificant. A lawyer will be in the best position to advise you on your case. You should get a lawyer even when the opposing side pressures you not to.
A lawyer helps in several ways. First, their very presence commands respect. Besides commanding respect, they will help with the technical legal aspects of your claim, help you avoid mistakes, negotiate the best settlement, and represent you in court if your case goes to trial.
