Even relatively minor car accidents can be traumatic, with potentially lifelong injuries and thousands of dollars in property damage. If the incident was caused by a negligent driver, your auto injury attorney may be able to collect compensation for your losses. However, the strength of your claim will depend a great deal on your actions immediately afterward. If you’re involved in an accident, it’s important to stay focused and follow the steps below.

What to Do After a Car Accident

1. Get to Safety

If your vehicles cannot be moved and are blocking traffic, set out emergency flares or hazard triangles if it’s safe to do so. If you’re not seriously injured, get out of the road and wait for the police and emergency medical services to arrive.

2. Don’t Discuss the Accident

Avoid getting into an argument with the other driver, no matter how angry you might be, and don’t apologize or offer to pay for damages. These statements could be used as an admission of guilt later, making it extremely difficult to file a claim. In general, it’s best not to discuss the case with anyone but your auto injury attorney.

3. Seek Medical Attention

​​​​​​​Even if you don’t appear to be seriously hurt, see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Some common injuries don’t present symptoms until hours or even days later, so your medical records will be valuable evidence proving that your damages were caused by the crash.

​​​​​​​4. Hire an Auto Injury Attorney

To ensure you get the full compensation you deserve, don’t talk to the insurer or the other driver’s lawyer without legal representation. Your attorney will evaluate the merits of your case, represent you in negotiations, and fight for your lost wages, medical expenses, and other damages.

As one of Omaha, NE’s most respected law firms, Salerno & Associates has earned an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, along with the distinction of being named one of the Top 100 Trial Attorneys by Super Lawyers. If you’ve been hurt by a careless driver and don’t know where to turn, you can rely on these auto injury attorneys for the effective representation and individualized attention you need. Visit their website now to see how they can help, or call (866) 787-2598 for a no-cost consultation today. For more tips and advice, just follow the law office on Facebook.