Although no one plans on getting into an auto accident, they’re a common everyday occurrence. For this reason, it’s best to be prepared in the event you find yourself involved in the chaos and confusion of a crash. If you suffer serious injuries due to another driver’s negligence, it’s vital that you know what to do to preserve your right to recover damages. Here are some of the steps you should take immediately following a traffic collision.

What to Do in the Aftermath of an Auto Accident 

1. Get Medical Treatment 

It’s wise to visit a doctor even if you don’t think your injuries are substantial. Symptoms can take days to manifest, and internal injuries are difficult to detect without an exam. Additionally, your medical records will serve as key proof in establishing liability. 

2. File a Police Report 

In most states, the law requires that a police report be made for an auto accident resulting in considerable property damages or injuries. Calling the police out to the scene will also provide you with an unbiased opinion of who was at fault, which can help support your claim later on. 

3. Collect Evidence 

The burden of proof falls on the victim in personal injury cases. This means you will need as much evidence as possible to show how the other party is responsible for your injuries. Collect contact information from all those involved in the auto accident, take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries, and write down witness statements. 

4. Contact Your Insurance Company 

Cooperate with your insurance company by notifying them of the incident as soon as possible. Relay the facts of what happened, but be cautious about providing any additional details. You may say something that can be taken as an admission of fault and inadvertently harm your case. 

5. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer

After being injured in an accident, you want to ensure you are properly compensated. Medical bills and lost wages can create a considerable financial hardship. A personal injury lawyer will help accurately determine how much your claim is worth, take care of all negotiations with the insurance company, and advocate on your behalf in court if a settlement cannot be reached. 

Your actions in the aftermath of an auto accident can make all the difference in your ability to file a successful personal injury claim. Jones & Jones PC Attys at Law offers 65 years of experience fighting to protect the interests of Andalusia, AL, injury victims. Over the years, they have earned a solid reputation for helping clients receive the maximum compensation they’re entitled to. Call (334) 222-3161 to discuss your legal options if you’ve been hurt in a collision, or visit them online to learn more about the variety of personal injury cases they handle.  

No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.