If you’ve been involved in an accident that was not your fault, there are several steps to take to obtain compensation. A car accident attorney can collect evidence to determine who was at fault to help you receive repayment for damages. Here are some things to do after a car crash that’s not your fault:
Call for an Ambulance
After an accident, check yourself, passengers, and others involved for injuries and call for an ambulance whether the harm is small or significant. When talking to a dispatcher, tell them about the location, the number of people injured, and how serious the injuries are. This information helps emergency medical responders to plan for treatment effectively.
Even if you feel fine after a crash, it’s beneficial to seek medical attention because internal bleeding may escalate into severe health issues. As you get treatment, keep all the documents so that a car accident attorneycan use them to build a strong case. A detailed medical record provides proof of your injuries and treatment, which supports your settlement claim.
Take Photos of the Accident Scene
If you can, take clear pictures of the accident scene from different angles and distances. When capturing the photos, include details such as damage to the vehicle, traffic signs, the position of the cars, and weather and road conditions. With this information, professionals can paint the picture of how and why the car accident happened.
You may include pictures of the license plates of all vehicles to show who was involved. When you meet with your lawyer, carry these pictures so that they can use them to understand your case better. With this evidence, your attorney may determine who was responsible for the crash and present the details to the court or insurer.
Get a Police Report
After a traffic accident, police officers might come to the scene to interview you, the other driver, and any witnesses. They also write a report explaining how the crash occurred and what could have caused it. Police officers include information about any injuries sustained by drivers, passengers, or pedestrians.
The report also describes the vehicle and property damage that the specific accident caused. Qualified auto accident lawyers use police reports to determine liability and strengthen your case. You or your lawyer can request a copy of the paperwork from the law enforcement agency.
Exchange Information With the Other Driver
Getting the other driver’s names, contact details, license plate numbers, and insurance information helps you get your compensation. Insurance companies require such information to determine coverage and liability. If there’s an issue about fault, having comprehensive details may resolve this problem. When you know the vehicle’s make and model, insurance experts may use this information to estimate the repair or replacement expenses. The other person’s license numbers help to establish who they are if the case goes to court.
Report the Crash to Your Insurance Company
After an accident, let your insurer know about it right away to help you process your claim and receive a fair settlement. When submitting documents, include the accident report, photos of the accident scene, and medical records to act as evidence. To facilitate communication between insurance companies, include the names and contact information of all parties involved. Your attorney can propose a settlement amount with your insurer, depending on the damages and injuries sustained. If the insurance company tries to offer you an amount that does not cover all of the damages, your lawyer will negotiate with them on your behalf.
Hire a Reputable Car Accident Attorney
After getting involved in an auto crash, talk to an experienced lawyer to advise you on the next legal steps. They can help you prepare documents to support your claim and get sufficient compensation. Contact a qualified car accident attorney today to evaluate your case.
