Even if it is relatively minor, a car accident can still come as a shock to anyone involved. Once you check yourself and any passengers for injuries and set up any necessary flares or warning triangles, you need to think about the next steps. If you were injured as a result of a car accident, you might be entitled to compensation. Unfortunately, your actions in the aftermath of a car accident can directly impact the ability of a personal injury attorney to get you a settlement. Below are a few steps to take to ensure a favorable outcome. 

What to Do After an Auto Accident

1. Call the Police

Contact the local police to take a statement and file a report. Insurance companies always ask for police reports, as do most personal injury attorneys. Answer all questions honestly to provide the officer with accurate information, but be careful not to apologize or take responsibility for the accident, as it could hurt the claim. If no police officer arrives at the scene for any reason, visit the police department to file a report yourself.

2. Take Photos of the Damage

Take photos of any damage to the vehicle, such as any bodywork dents and scrapes, shattered glass, and damaged wheels. Capture as many images of the scene as you can, including any visible injuries you or your passengers sustained. Dated photos provide evidence claims with the insurance company and filing a lawsuit against the other drivers with help from a personal injury attorney. Even if you do not intend to sue, you need photos of the accident for insurance coverage.

3. Exchange Information

Exchange contact information with all of the involved parties, including the police officer and the driver in the other car, as you will need to speak with them in the future about the insurance claim and potential lawsuit. Get the contact information of any witnesses as well, if applicable. Other information to gather includes the vehicle’s make, model, and year, as well as driver’s license numbers, the location of the accident, and the license plate numbers. Do not sign anything other than a police report as you exchange information.

4. Notify the Insurance Agency

Call the insurance carrier as soon as possible to report the accident and review your coverage. Get a claim number and the name and contact information of the adjuster in charge of the filing. Create a file of all of the documents related to the accident to go over with the insurance carrier and personal injury attorney. Keep in mind that you do not have to provide the adjuster with a statement until you have spoken to a lawyer.

The personal injury attorneys at Seiler & Parker P.C., L.L.O. are here to guide you through any vehicular accident claims. The full-service law firm with locations in Hastings and Clay Center, NE, offers the comprehensive legal counsel that area residents need to expedite their claims and lawsuits. Call (402) 463-3125 today to schedule a free consultation or visit the firm online for more information about practice areas. Get additional advice on Facebook.