5 Steps to Take After You’ve Been In an Accident
Car Accident Lawyer
Whether you’re the victim or the at-fault driver, there are several things that can make your life easier in the immediate aftermath of a crash. And now is a better time to start thinking about them than when you’re in the middle of an emergency situation. Calling a car accident lawyer from Tuttle Law, P.A is the most important step in getting the compensation you deserve.
There are steps you can take in the immediate aftermath to ensure your safety and the safety of others. The aftermath of an accident can be frightening, but keeping a clear head can help you ensure you’re taken care of both physically and legally.
1. Stop your vehicle immediately.
Even if there is no visible damage and no one appears to be injured, stop your car as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the police or traffic authorities arrive to pull over; stop at once if it’s safe to do so.
Turn off your car’s engine and switch on hazard lights. The law requires drivers involved in accidents to remain at the scene of the incident until they have fulfilled their legal requirements, so don’t leave your vehicle until everyone’s safety has been ensured.
2. Assess Your Health
If you’ve been in a car accident, the very first thing to do is check yourself for injuries. If you notice any pain or discomfort, try not to move. If you feel fine, slowly move around and see if anything hurts. You may have sustained serious injuries that aren’t immediately apparent, like internal bleeding or whiplash. Tuttle Law, P. A. has experienced car accident lawyers to help guide you through the process.
3. Check on Others Involved
Once you’ve assessed your own condition, check on any other passengers in your vehicle. If they are conscious, ask them how they are feeling. Do they have any obvious injuries? Make sure they’re able to sit still until help arrives.
If anyone involved has sustained serious injuries like loss of consciousness or severe bleeding, call 911 right away. Paramedics will be able to assess the situation and transport anyone with serious injuries.
4. Document the Accident
Take photos of all vehicles involved in the crash from all angles (or have someone else take them for you), including any damage sustained by cars, trees or other objects at the scene; also photograph any visible injuries you suffered. This will help with your claim when it comes time to settle with your insurer or take legal action with your car accident lawyer against another driver for damages caused by their negligence.
5. Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
After an accident, it is likely that your insurance company will contact you about settling your claim. However, if your injuries are serious, it is important to have an attorney work with your insurance company to ensure that you are fully compensated for your losses. This may include lost wages or income, medical bills, and even rehabilitation costs.
You need to understand how insurance works before you speak with an adjuster or attorney. The best way to do this is by speaking with a qualified car accident attorney who understands how these claims work. An experienced car accident lawyer will know how to protect your rights throughout the process so that they are not violated while dealing with insurance companies and other lawyers involved in the case.