If you’re involved in a car accident, what you do at the scene and in the days that follow will have a major impact on any subsequent claims you file. In other words, it’s essential to take certain steps—and avoid certain missteps—so your case has the best chance of success. Until you hire a personal injury lawyer, though, you’re essentially on your own, so keep the following tips in mind in case you ever end up in a wreck.

Do:

Accept medical care.

Do not refuse medical care at the scene unless it’s clear someone else who was involved sustained more serious injuries. And, regardless of whether you’re treated at the scene, visit a doctor as soon as possible after leaving. This will ensure you receive care for all impact injuries, including those that may have latent symptoms. It will also show the insurance adjuster you're committed to mitigating damages.

Record the scene.

Accident reconstruction experts may be able to determine what happened in the seconds leading up to the crash by reviewing detailed photographs of the scene. Once officers start directing traffic safely away from the area, shoot the wreckage from all angles. You should also get the names and phone numbers of any eyewitnesses so your accident attorney can obtain their statements.

Don’t:

Apologize.

People are often inclined to apologize when they see someone in distress, regardless of whether they're responsible for the individual’s condition. Since apologizing at the scene could be interpreted as an admission of fault, though, you should avoid doing so. Do not let the opposing party convince you to accept some degree of blame, either. Instead, leave it up to your personal injury lawyer to determine fault by conducting a thorough investigation.

Give a recorded statement.

The insurance adjuster may request a statement within days of the accident. Since it’s highly unlikely you’ve reached maximum medical improvement in that time, you should politely decline. Providing a recorded statement before knowing the full extent of the damages will essentially “lock in” the case, thereby preventing you from recovering compensation for 100% of the losses.

If you were hurt in a car accident that was not your fault, turn to a personal injury lawyer at Jones & Jones PC Attys at Law to start building your claim. Located in Andalusia, AL, this firm has been in business since 1953, and they have an impressive track record of success when it comes to securing sizable settlements and verdicts on behalf of their clients. And, since they also practice criminal law and family law, they can handle virtually all your legal needs. To request a consultation with one of their compassionate personal injury lawyers, call (334) 222-3161 or reach out online.

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.