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If you’ve been in a car crash, your safety is the first priority. After you’ve established this, focus on protecting yourself legally. The steps taken in the minutes after an accident play a pivotal role. Here’s what to do to safeguard your rights. 

How to Proceed After a Car Crash

1. Call the Authorities

car crashStay at the scene of the crash; leaving is a criminal offense. Call 9-1-1 and wait for the police to arrive. You want to give them your statement—their formal report will be invaluable in potential lawsuits.

2. Don’t Say Too Much

Do not get into a blame-game argument with others involved in the car crash—this won’t help you in any way. Never admit fault or even say “I’m sorry” which can be construed as an admission of guilt in potential legal battles.

3. Take Photos

Use your cell phone to take pictures of the scene. Include the insides and outsides of all cars involved. If someone was driving fast enough upon impact for an airbag to deploy, you want documentation of this. Also, take photos of relevant surroundings, like a stoplight the other driver ran.

4. See a Doctor

Even if you feel fine, visit a doctor after the accident. Some ailments, like a concussion, might not show immediate symptoms. If you want to pursue any type of personal injury claim, medical reports will be needed. 

5. Get Legal Help

Consult a lawyer after an auto crash. An attorney can advise you on everything from how to respond to insurance company inquiries to whether you have a potential lawsuit on your hands. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis—instead of taking an up-front fee, they simply get a cut of any damages you receive. This way, there’s no risk to you.

 

If you’ve been in a car crash and want legal counsel you can trust, look to The Law Office of Gregory S. Young. This law firm has been helping members of the O’Fallon, MO, community with aggressive personal injury representation since 1958. Managing Partner Gregory Young stepped into his grandfather’s shoes to continue the firm’s legacy—and continues to lead a team of talented attorneys. Learn more about their experience in the area of auto accident law online. For an appointment, call (513) 721-1077. 

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