Taking the right steps following a crash can be critical to your car accident claim. While your lawyer is handling the details and the insurance company, you may wonder what you can do to help.
A car crash is an overwhelming experience, but taking action is essential. If you were injured in an accident, an experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyer can help you navigate the process and seek compensation.
1. Immediate Steps To Take
When a crash occurs ensuring your safety is a top priority. If you were involved in an accident, you should:
- Ensure Safety First: The most important thing you can do is ensure safety. Check on yourself, your passengers, and assess the scene. If it is unsafe to remain in your vehicle due to fire or fluids, you should immediately exit.
- Check for Injuries: After checking for immediate safety concerns, you should check for injuries. Visually assess yourself and your passengers for any visible injuries.
- Move to a Safe Location: If you are able, you will want to move your vehicle or yourself to a safe location out of traffic. This can be vital to preventing further damage or injuries.
2. Contact Emergency Services
It is vital to call emergency services after an accident. police, fire, and paramedics provide crucial services after a motor vehicle crash and documentation that can help your lawyer with your claim. Be honest with law enforcement, tell them only what you know, and avoid admitting fault.
3. Document the Scene
You should try to document the accident scene and damages, if you are able. Photos of your crashed car, other vehicles involved, and where the crash occurred can be valuable evidence for proving fault and serve as the basis of your injury claim.
You will also want to exchange contact information with the other drivers, write down details about the crash, and gather witness information.
4. Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention immediately following a motor vehicle accident. Even if you are not experiencing pain, it is critical to seek treatment. Symptoms or pain may manifest later, even for some serious injuries.
Medical documentation of your injuries is also vital to your compensation claim. Your lawyer will work with your medical team to collect evidence of your injuries and your prognosis.
5. Consult With An Experienced Car Accident Attorney
It is vital to secure your car accident rights. Attorneys know state laws, understand compensation, and the importance of liability in regard to your claim. Your lawyer can review your insurance policy and help you gather essential information.
When you work with a car crash lawyer, they will handle not just your claim, but also gather all the required supporting evidence. It is important to provide them with receipts for all expenses, names of medical providers and car repair companies, and any bills that you receive. Your attorney may also ask you to track recovery progress in a daily diary in order to secure compensation for emotional distress after car accidents.
6. Settlement or Verdict
After filing a claim, the insurance company will most likely offer you a settlement. You should work closely with your personal injury lawyer to understand your goals and the compensation you are owed. Having transparent discussions and open communication is critical when deciding to accept a settlement or take your claim to trial.
If you were injured in an accident, contact an attorney at The Law Offices of Greg Prosmushkin, P.C. Our dedicated team of compassionate personal injury lawyers have experience with a full range of auto accident claims.