If you’ve been in a car accident, the actions you take immediately following the crash can help determine how well you can heal from your injuries and even how successfully you can recover compensation for your losses.
Immediately following an accident of any size, whether it’s a fender bender or a large multi vehicle crash, try to stay calm. Evaluate what has happened. If there is any chance you have significantly hit your head or you may need emergency medical assistance, call 911. You will also want to call for emergency services if someone else at the scene is seriously injured.
If no one is seriously injured, you’ll want to take the following steps:
- Move the cars to the side of the road if the injuries and damage are not serious. This can prevent secondary collisions.
- Start documenting what has happened by taking photos of the accident scene.
- Get the contact information of any potential witnesses and the insurance information of any other drivers involved.
At the scene, try to stay calm and avoid getting into a discussion about what may or may not have caused the accident. You may not have all the facts and anything you say, even something innocent, can later harm your chances of getting compensation.
Soon after your car accident you will want to contact your insurance company to file a claim. You may also want to contact a personal injury attorney if you have sustained serious damages or personal injury. Even if you have insurance, an attorney can negotiate with your insurer for you, making sure that you get fair compensation. If the accident is significant or your injuries are complex, an attorney is an important way to make sure more of your injuries are covered.
Even once you walk away from the scene, it’s important to keep your car accident in mind. For example, keep an eye on your injuries. Sometimes, soft tissue injuries and even head injuries don’t present symptoms right away. A few hours or a few days after the accident you may start noticing pain.
It’s a good idea to get a full medical evaluation after a collision, even if you’re pretty sure you weren’t injured. This can make sure you get appropriate medical treatment fast and can start the documentation process to show that your injuries were linked to your car accident.
As you move forward after your accident, keep careful note of any expenses related to your crash, even a taxi home. Keep an eye on your symptoms and continue to work with your doctor so you can heal. If you have an attorney, keep them updated. Try to avoid talking about the accident or posting on social media until you’ve talked to an attorney, since anything you say could be used by insurance parties for the other side to reduce their obligations to you.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in South Florida and would like to speak to an attorney, you can always call Flaxman Law Group at 866-352-9626, 24/7. Or contact us online to schedule a free accident consultation.