A car accident can greatly impact your life. Depending on the severity of the impact, a car accident can leave you with life-altering injuries or, worse still, cost you your life.
When someone else’s mistakes lead to a wreck, you may pursue the responsible party for compensation for your injuries and property damage. However, to win your case there are certain things you should do – and some major pitfalls to avoid.
Here are the do’s and don’t’s you need to keep in mind after a wreck:
Do collect any evidence you think will help
In order to get compensated for your injuries, you will need to reach a settlement with the defendant’s insurance company (or, where there is a dispute, take the matter to court). Either way, you will need evidence to prove your case.
If you have your smartphone with you, try to get photos or videos of the accident scene. Witness statements will also be crucial for proving your case, so be sure to get the contact information of anybody who stuck around after the wreck.
Do seek an immediate medical evaluation
Seeking medical treatment immediately after your accident is important for two reasons. First, you need to be evaluated for any injuries that you may have – including hidden wounds that may not be obvious. Second, you need to draw a direct line between the wreck and your injuries so that there is no question that they are connected.
Do not trust the insurance company to do the right thing
It is not unusual for the insurance adjuster to call injury victims with the goal of tricking them into admitting some degree of fault or accepting a lowball settlement offer. Remember: Regardless of how friendly they might seem, the defendant’s insurance company is not on your side. Be wary of agreeing to a quick settlement or divulging information that they can turn against you later.
Knowing the right steps to take following a car accident can help you prepare a competent personal injury claim and get the compensation you deserve for your losses.
