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If you've been in a serious automobile accident, there are a few things you should do afterward to make sure you're taken care of. Follow these five steps, and you'll be on your way to recovery.
1. Check for injuries and seek medical attention if necessary
2. Call the police to file a report
3. Take photos of the damage to both vehicles involved in the accident
4. Exchange insurance information with the other driver
5. Contact an attorney who specializes in automobile accidents
Check for injuries and seek medical attention if necessary
After being in a serious automobile accident, the first priority should be to check for injuries and seek medical attention. Immediately assess your own condition and look to see if anyone has been injured in the accident, even if they are not showing any signs of injury - it is important to be proactive in addressing possible psychological trauma as well as physical pain. If necessary, get emergency medical help right away. Regardless of the severity of the injuries, it is important to document all injuries sustained and keep copies of any medical bills received related to the accident for insurance purposes.
Call the police to file a report
Immediately after a serious automobile accident, calling the police is an important step to take. Having an official document of the incident will be invaluable when dealing with insurance companies and for any other legal matters that could arise. A police officer can assess the damages and write up an accident report, which should include all relevant information such as the make/model of cars involved, the contact information of witnesses, weather conditions at the time of the incident, and any pictures taken at the scene. Taking this action immediately following a serious auto accident will provide protection and create a strong foundation if further legal proceedings become necessary in order to resolve the issue.
Take photos of the damage to both vehicles involved in the accident
After being involved in a serious automobile accident, it is important to take photos of the damage that was caused to both vehicles. Doing so will provide documentation and evidence of what was damaged or destroyed in the accident. Taking pictures can really help with insurance claims, disputes, and court proceedings if necessary. Photos can also be used as a reference for getting estimates on repairs. So after being involved in an automobile accident, be sure to take photographs of any damage done to all cars involved for good record keeping purposes.
Exchange insurance information with the other driver
If you have been in a serious automobile accident, exchanging insurance information with the other driver is a key step in the process of filing a claim. It's important to be aware of the proper steps to take after an accident, so ensure that you exchange all necessary personal and financial details pertaining to each of your insurance policies. Do this as promptly as possible after the accident - if possible, on the scene - but don't forget to also document the make and model of both vehicles, as well as the license plate numbers. This can help significantly when dealing with your insurance company, ensuring that you get the best representation for your case.
Contact an attorney who specializes in automobile accidents
After being in an automobile accident, it is essential to contact a specialized attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can provide invaluable advice to guide you through the process, from filing medical and police reports to negotiating with insurance companies. An effective attorney can be a powerful ally when it comes to protecting your rights and getting you fair compensation. They will also be able to inform you of your state's laws surrounding automobile accidents so that you understand your full legal rights and responsibilities following the crash. Finding a reputable lawyer who specializes in automobile accidents should be at the top of your list after being involved in such an incident.
No one ever wants to go through the stressful experience of being involved in a serious automobile accident. Following the five steps listed and outlined in this post can help make the process more manageable and less overwhelming. Be sure to take care of yourself first, check for injuries, and seek medical attention if necessary. Remember to call the police to file a report, take photos of the damage, exchange insurance information with other driver, and contact an attorney who specializes in automobile accidents. Taking these five steps after a serious car accident will help put you at ease during such a difficult time. It is important to have experienced legal professionals on your side after being involved in an auto accident, so don’t hesitate to reach out to Anchell Law today. With over 25 years of expertise in personal injury cases like auto accidents, we offer personalized services that prioritize your needs by providing tailored advice that fits your individual situation.
Alan Anchell of Anchell Law has been serving South Florida for over 25 years and is an AV-rated attorney. Alan will personally oversee and handle your case from inception thru trial. Alan spent many years representing insurance companies, doctors, and hospitals. He applies his inside knowledge and knows how to maximize your case.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to Alan Anchell, of Anchell Law Firm, for a free case consultation or insurance policy review. He can be reached at (954-472-3131).