Everything that happens after an automobile accident can impact if or how much compensation a victim might receive for his or her injuries. Unfortunately, many are uncertain of just how damaging the wrong decisions and actions can be to their case. Do not let this happen to you. Instead, know what to do in the hours, days, weeks, and months after an automobile accident occurs.
Be Prepared Ahead of Time
Handling an accident is not just about knowing what to do when one happens, but being prepared ahead of time if one should. Keep the essentials on you—a charged cell phone, ID cards, emergency contacts, health insurance cards, and a vehicle safety kit.
Immediately After the Accident
It is in the moments immediately following an accident that most people make mistakes that can be costly to their case—namely apologizing as opposed to expressing sorrow that an accident has occurred, or making statements that someone else might interpret as an admission of fault. Instead, focus on keeping your calm and collecting information. Pertinent items to collect include:
- Names, phone numbers, addresses, and email addresses for all other involved in the accident and any potential witnesses;
- Insurance company name, policy number, and phone number of all drivers involved;
- Photographs of the accident scene and damage to your vehicle;
- Location of the accident; and
- If the police respond, the police report number, officer name and badge number, and phone number for the station.
In the Following Days and Weeks
Once the initial and immediate matters are handled, it is important to focus on any possible injuries. Often, this requires a visit to a health care professional, not just immediately after, but if you suffer any pain or residual symptoms in the coming days and weeks. You should also collect important information that will help document the extent of your injuries and any associated costs. This should include:
- Gas receipts;
- Co-pay receipts;
- Medical records;
- X-rays;
- CT scans;
- Medication receipts; and
- Any other documents or receipts related to health care costs.
Get Help with Your Automobile Accident Case
It may be tempting to try and save money by handling the case on your own, however this is potentially the biggest mistake you can make. Insurance companies and their attorneys will attempt to either dismiss your injury case altogether, or they will attempt to minimize the damage. Instead, get the representation you deserve by contacting the experienced Appleton personal injury attorneys or Green Bay personal injury attorneys at [[title]] Call 920-739-7366 today.
Source:
https://www.geico.com/claims/after-an-accident/