Being involved in a car accident can cause physical and mental pain and stress, severe injuries, big medical bills, and other issues. Additionally, not everyone knows what to do after their accident, so they could make mistakes that cause additional hardship. Fortunately, working with an attorney is a good way to reduce the risk of problems after an accident because it provides victims with the advocates they need to seek compensation.
Get as Much Information as Possible
Anyone who’s in a car or truck accident should get all the details they can as soon as possible. If you can collect the other driver’s information and witness statements, that’s a good start. Take pictures and video of the accident scene, too, and ask nearby stores if they have cameras pointing at the area. You’ll also want to call the police and file a report, and make sure to get a copy of it. Of course, serious injuries may prevent you from doing these things at the time of the accident.
Contact a Qualified Accident Attorney
Contact a trusted truck and car accident attorney to help as soon as you’re well enough. Give them all the evidence and details you have. They’ll collect much more than that, but you can give them a good start. Make sure they see your medical records, the police report, and anything that’s been affected by the injuries you’ve sustained. If you can’t work, for example, you want to show them what you were making before the accident and when or if you’re expected to be able to return.
Take Your Time, Not the First Offer You Get
It can be very tempting to take the first offer the other party’s insurance company gives you, but that’s usually not a good offer. It’s designed to encourage you to settle and will prevent you from suing. Take your time and work with your attorney to get the best possible settlement offer instead of just the quickest one. Cases rarely go to court, so you’ll likely reach a settlement agreement through your attorney. However, if you have a big case with significant injuries, you want to choose a talented attorney in court, just in case things go that far.
Focus on Your Medical Care and Treatment
Your treatment and medical care are the most important things to focus on immediately after a car accident. You have time to file suit and don’t have to do it immediately. While it’s important to talk to an attorney as soon as possible, your healing has to come first. You can have family members help you with contacting an attorney, making it easier for you to concentrate on getting better.