If you travel by car on a fairly regular basis, you might end up in a collision at some point. Fortunately, most wrecks are minor. However, it’s wise to review the steps to take following an accident if you do get hurt. Failing to do certain actions immediately following a crash could hurt your chances of filing a successful personal injury claim. 

5 Steps to Take Following a Motor-vehicle Collision 

1. Call the Police

If possible, pull out of the flow of traffic and call the police. Officers will direct traffic away from the area, so you can record the scene without worrying about a subsequent accident. They will also prepare an official report, which most insurers require to process a claim. 

2. Photograph the Wreckage

Once it’s safe to do so, walk around the wreckage and photograph it from all angles. Don’t forget to capture details beyond the vehicles, like skid marks, road conditions, and nearby traffic signals. Accident reconstruction experts will analyze these photos to determine what happened in the seconds leading up to the crash. 

3. Gather Pertinent Information 

Your personal injury attorney will need the names and phone numbers of any eyewitnesses to obtain their testimony. To file a third-party claim, you will need the other motorists’ contact details and insurance policy numbers. Be prepared to provide your own details to the other drivers, as well. 

4. Visit a Doctor 

Regardless of whether you were treated at the scene, it’s wise to visit a doctor as soon as possible. Even if you feel fine, some impact injuries do not manifest immediate symptoms.

5. Consult With a Lawyer 

Once your health has stabilized, an attorney can help you determine who was liable and then build a strong personal injury claim against them. Hiring a lawyer to handle the logistics will allow you to focus on recovering. A lawyer can also help you by advising what to do before you are asked important questions like, accepting some portion or fault or providing a recorded statement before reaching maximum medical improvement.

If you were hurt in a car accident and want to discuss the situation with a personal injury lawyer, get in touch with Best & Westover Law. Located in Kalispell, MT, this firm has been representing individuals and families throughout Flathead County for more than 40 years. Their knowledgeable team is proud to help clients resolve even the most complicated legal disputes. In addition to personal injury cases, they also practice family, criminal, immigration, and estate law. To reach out to a compassionate car accident attorney, visit them online or call (406) 752-8731.