What To Do After An Auto Accident

It's natural to be confused after a car accident. You may be hurt and wondering why it had to be you who was hit by the careless driver. For some straightforward help, this article will tell you what you should do after an accident to enhance your ability to be compensated.

After the Accident:

  • Avoid speaking to anyone at the accident scene except law enforcement and medical personnel.
  • If possible, take pictures of both wrecked vehicles.
  • Go to a doctor, emergency room, or urgent care clinic.
  • Write down everything you can remember about the accident and the accident scene.
  • Get a friend to photograph your visible injuries.
  • Begin keeping a journal to record your pain, medication, doctor's orders, and everything else concerning the accident.
  • Organize your accident paperwork and get ready to speak to a personal injury lawyer.
  • Obtain a copy of the accident report.
  • Call your auto insurer to report the accident.
  • If the other driver's insurer calls or contacts you, avoid speaking to them.
  • Make an appointment with a personal injury lawyer.

At the Lawyer's Office

  • Gather your medical and accident information to take with you.
  • Find out how what to do with additional paperwork, bills, etc. that arrive.
  • Let your lawyer know the status of your injuries and what you expect in the coming weeks or months.
  • Discuss your work and how much time you have missed.
  • Learn about paying your lawyer using a contingency fee plan.
  • Find out if you have a case worth pursuing.
  • If the lawyer accepts your case, sign a representation agreement.

After the Meeting

  • Continue to use your journal to record your medical progress, discomfort, and other physical problems related to the accident.
  • Seek mental health care if you notice signs of anxiety, depression, sleeping problems, eating disorders, anger, irritability, and more.
  • Save the therapy bills for your lawyer.
  • Continue to follow your doctor's orders.
  • You may be asked to attend a special medical examination. This exam is to pinpoint the status of your injuries.

Preparing to Settle Your Case

  • You and your lawyer will decide together how much you are owed for your damages.
  • In most cases, expect to be paid for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the repair or replacement of your vehicle.
  • Your lawyer will negotiate with the at-fault driver's insurer to get you the maximum possible.
  • If a suitable settlement is cannot be negotiated, you and your lawyer may prepare to head to court.

To find out more, speak to a local law firm, such as Voorhees Law Firm.


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