What to Do After an Automotive Accident

If you have ever been in a automotive accident, then you know how immensely stressful and staggering they can be. Some injuries — both physical and psychological — have not even manifested themselves yet, and the shock makes your perception of pain, bodily harm, and the severity of your situation hard to judge. However, despite the stress of your circumstances, it is important not to panic. Do not leave the scene of the accident. Remove yourself from harm’s way by pulling your vehicle to the side of the road (if possible), or by exiting your vehicle and getting out of the way of oncoming traffic. Your safety and wellbeing should always come first and foremost.

Making poor decisions in the aftermath of a car accident has cost many people immensely in the months that follow. While some of these mistakes are common, they can nonetheless prevent you from attaining the compensation you need and deserve. In order to avoid the most common pitfalls after suffering an automotive accident, here are some steps you should take.

Call Emergency Services

Even if there do not immediately appear to be any injuries to your person, your passengers, or the other driver, it is vitally important that you contact emergency services. You will want the police on-site to help document the automotive accident, take statements, and make a record of damages and injuries. If you feel you have a medical emergency, calling an ambulance can be a great way to get checked out by medical professionals and to help avoid severe bodily harm from serious bodily harm hiding under the surface.

Document Everything

Even with the police on the scene, you are going to want to do your best to document your injuries and the damages to your vehicle on your own. This means taking photos of damage to your vehicle and person on your phone, getting the names and phone numbers of potential witnesses, and exchanging insurance information with the other driver. You will also want photos of the scene to help support your version of events should your case ever go to court.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you do not go to the emergency room after your accident, it is imperative that you see a doctor as soon as possible. Failure to seek medical treatment and advice in the event of an accident may make it difficult, if not impossible, to prove the extent of your injuries and to seek out compensation for your damages. Many injuries might not manifest themselves until weeks or months after the accident, and it is important to make sure you are not suffering from internal injuries that can pose serious risks later.

Talk to a Lawyer 

Most importantly, do not attempt to navigate the insurance claims and adjustors on your own. Talk to a professional attorney who has dealt with these scenarios thousands of times before. Call D.R. Patti & Associates at (702) 500-7070 for a free consultation today!