Auto Accident: First Steps

After an auto accident, shock usually sets in where one’s adrenaline rushes, and the aches and pains from the accident may not show up until the shock of it all passes you by. Despite this, there are a few things to keep in mind when in a car accident.

• Call 911 – the police need to be notified when an auto accident happens. It is imperative to call 911 immediately when in an accident or a witness to the accident.
• Doctor Care: If you are injured or are not feeling right, seek out treatment immediately. Of course if you are not hurt at all, please do not be inspired by infamous personal injury attorney commercials, but also realize that shock and adrenaline may play a part of when you truly start feeling the aches and pains. Make sure to follow all recommendations of your doctor, and to not delay in any treatment that may be necessary for a full and complete recovery.
• Take Pictures: any pictures of the scene; damages to the vehicle; and placement of cars could be helpful in any investigation, settlement, or lawsuit, if that becomes necessary.
• Witnesses: even though law enforcement is on the scene of an auto accident, this does not mean the witness information is collected. If at all possible, speak to the witness and get their name, number, and address.
• Call an attorney: Remember, although you want the world to be fair. The insurance company has the job to protect the money they pay out. This means they may attempt to find you partially at fault; find reasons as to why your injuries may or may not be the cause of the accident; and attempt to minimize the trauma and injuries that you may have received. Thus, it is important to call an attorney who works on personal injury cases so that you have someone fighting for you while you recover. The sooner to the accident you call the attorney; the better it is for you.

Thus, until you talk to an attorney, it is best not to give a recorded statement at all. For more often than not, they will use your own words to diminish the value of your claim. Honesty is the best policy, but when others are looking for words to trip one up, it is better to remain silent until you have the advice of counsel.