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Under the law, car crash victims have the right to pursue compensation for their losses in the event they are seriously hurt due to another driver’s negligence. However, the injured party will be responsible for proving liability, making it imperative to start building a case immediately following the accident. Failing to take the right action can work against you when it comes time to settle your personal injury claim. Below are a few do’s and don’ts to guide you through the moments following a crash.

Do:

Contact the police. 

If you are able, one of the first things you should do while still at the location of the accident is to contact the police. They will talk to both drivers, speak to witnesses, and analyze the scene before filling out a detailed report of what they believe took place and who was at fault. They will provide an unbiased opinion that can later be used as evidence to help support your claim.

Gather evidence.

car crashAs soon as you are capable, it’s essential to start gathering evidence that will allow you to put together a strong argument for your case. This should include taking pictures of the damage done to all vehicles involved and the scene of the car crash, writing down witness testimonies and collecting their contact information, and photographing your injuries.  

Don’t:

Neglect to seek medical attention.

Seeking medical attention is not only vital to the recovery process, but it will also affect your personal injury case. It’s the only way to get an accurate diagnosis of your injuries so you can determine how much your claim is worth. Your medical records will also help show you were injured as a direct result of the collision.

Settle without seeking counsel.

You are under no obligation to accept the first settlement offer you receive from the other driver’s insurance company. Keep in mind it will be their goal to settle for as little as possible, which means they’re likely to offer you an amount much lower than the value of your claim. You should never agree to anything until consulting with an attorney who can advise you on what to do.

 

The stress of being injured in a car crash can make it difficult to navigate the claims process. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to have a personal injury attorney assist in preparing your case. The legal team at The Law Office of Gregory S. Young has been entrusted to protect the rights of Cincinnati, OH, auto accident victims since 1958. Over the years, they have earned a reputation for successfully helping clients recover all the damages they’re entitled to. Contact them at (513) 721-1077, or visit their website to learn more. 

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