Car accidents happen every day in the United States — and many of them result in serious injuries and complicated legal claims for the victims.
There are several steps to take after a car accident to best protect your rights and help you recover financially. Here is what you should do:
Report the accident
The first thing you should consider doing after a car accident is to report the event to the authorities. The police will arrive at the scene of the accident to make a report, which will detail the names of every party involved, when and where the accident took place and how the accident may have occurred. This can be an essential part of your personal injury claim.
See a doctor
You want to have a medical examination done after a car accident — even if you do not believe you have suffered any injuries. Car accident victims sometimes have delayed symptoms — even when the injuries are serious. You could experience hidden injuries that do not become apparent until days or weeks after an accident. A medical evaluation is essential both to protect your health and connect your injuries to the accident.
Gather evidence
A successful auto accident claim is built on strong supporting evidence. Pictures of the damages done to a vehicle or property can help determine damages. You could also have video evidence from a dash camera or surveillance camera that documented the events that led to an accident. You may have a witness make a statement about the accident, as well.
Report to your insurer
You should contact your insurance company about the accident. This can help start your auto accident claim and recover compensation for your injuries and losses. However, even with your own insurer, it is wise to stick to “just the facts” and offer no opinion about how the accident happened or who might be responsible.
Do not accept a settlement offer
You may be offered an initial settlement offer by an insurance adjuster. This offer may seem fair — but it probably isn’t. Insurers only rush to settle when they want to limit their losses.
Understand your legal rights
You have the right to recover compensation for your injuries and financial losses after an auto accident. It is important to be aware of your legal options so you can recover maximum damages.