5 Things You Must Do After an Accident

While they are struggling to recover from their injuries, medical bills and expenses can quickly increase – leading to serious financial hardships. How can you avoid some of these complications? The steps you take immediately following your accident can make a serious difference in your ability to recover the money you need to put your life back together again. Here are the 5 things you must do after an accident:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately – immediately after a car accident, it is important to be examined by a qualified medical professional. Some injuries are only diagnosed on MRI or with examination. Even if you do not believe that you are seriously injured, it is always best to seek medical care. In the days and weeks following the accident, don’t be afraid to go back to see a doctor if you start to experience pain, swelling or other worrisome symptoms. A medical diagnosis can also help you establish that your injuries and the pain you are experiencing is a direct result of the accident itself.
2. File a Police Report – even if the accident is not a major one, it is important to call the police and file an accident report. An accident report documenting the details of the accident from the officer on the scene can be invaluable if you need to prove fault after an accident.
3. Gather Necessary Evidence – if you or someone you trust is able, gather any evidence at the scene of the accident. This may include taking pictures of the accident, the intersection, and the other cars. It may also include getting the names and numbers of eye witnesses. Be sure to document the details of the accident while they are still fresh in your mind.
4. Speak to an Experienced Car Accident Attorney – as soon as you are able, contact an experienced car accident lawyer. Your attorney will need to investigate all angles of your accident to determine who is ultimately to blame. Time is of the essence, however, because valuable evidence can be lost or destroyed if too much time has passed. Your attorney will also be able to negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and protect your rights to maximum compensation.
5. Stay Quiet – never speak to the insurance company without first consulting with an attorney. Insurance companies will try to get you to accept a low-ball “take it or leave it” offer. This is not in your best interest and is usually a fraction of what you need and deserve. Your attorney will protect your rights to compensation. Also, avoid saying things about your accident on social media. Social media posting can be detrimental to your case.