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You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident . . . Now What?

­­­First things first

If you, or anyone else involved in the accident, are severely injured, seek immediate medical attention. The health and safety of everyone is always the most important consideration.

Alert law enforcement

This is important for several reasons. Law enforcement officers will investigate the scene of the accident, inspect vehicles involved, and interview vehicle drivers, passengers, and any witnesses to the accident. They will then prepare an accident report which lays out the facts of the accident, and who, if anyone, is at fault. If fault is found, the accident report establishes liability. The report also helps you to not get involved in a he said, she said situation. Even in a minor accident, resist the urge to “keep things simple” and not call the police. Simple can morph into not so simple once people go home and start to overthink things.

Gather information

Assuming you are not seriously injured and are capable of doing so, try to gather the following information: the full name, address, phone number, and insurance carrier of the other driver, full contact info for any passengers in the other vehicle, full contact info for any third party witnesses to the accident, and the names and badge numbers of the responding law enforcement officers. While you’re at it, make yourself some notes. Jot down everything you remember regarding the accident—what happened, how it happened, the weather, the road conditions, and anything else that might be pertinent. This way, you have something to look back on if you need to refresh your memory.

Even if your injury does not seem serious . . .

It doesn’t hurt to get it checked out. Mention everything that’s bothering you to the healthcare provider. Even minor aches and pains can turn out to be more serious later on. Don’t be afraid to schedule x-rays, MRIs, or any other appropriate diagnostic tests if they are recommended.

Contact your insurance agent

Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible with all the details regarding your accident, including the other party’s insurance information. However, if the other party’s insurance company contacts you, and they probably will, do not give them a statement. Be polite, but firm.

And finally, contact an experienced lawyer

Not all lawyers are created equal. Contact a lawyer experienced with auto accidents and personal injury claims. It really does make a difference when seeking the compensation you may be entitled to.

If you have a personal injury claim, contact LaSalvia Law. We will fight to win you the compensation you deserve.

Step 1

FILL OUT THE FORM

Step 2

CHRISTINE WILL CALL

You can expect to hear from Christine 1-2 days after submitting your inquiry.

Step 3

SIGN AGREEMENT

Pay nothing up front. No fee until your case is settled or tried to a jury.