No one plans to be involved in a car accident. Often when this happens, many people are left unsure of how to obtain help. What are you even supposed to do immediately following the accident? Do you call the police? An attorney? An insurance adjuster? Here’s what you need to know to become prepared for the unexpected.
What to do after a car accident?
Right after a car accident, you may be in shock, but you may want to calm yourself down and think clearly. Your priority should be to call the police and seek medical treatment for whichever injury you have endured. Even if you believe that your injuries are not severe, it would be best to get checked out by a doctor if your injury is not visible, like a concussion or internal bleeding. Please make sure to follow all present and future treatments prescribed by the doctor and keep all documents relating to your injury to prove to the insurance company that you are injured as they love to argue otherwise.
If at all possible, please have a loved one or yourself take pictures of the accident scene. So you have documentation of your property damage and your injuries. Also, if the opposing driver is at fault and can find evidence such as traffic lights, the point of impact, etc., please document that.
It is imperative to exchange contact information with the other parties involved, as well as any witnesses.
When do you need a lawyer?
- If the accident involved a severe injury requiring medical attention or a fatality, please contact an attorney to learn about your legal options.
- If the police report does not describe who is at fault or if you believe the fault was the other party’s.
- If you are struggling to agree with your insurance company.
- If you have any doubts, then it’s always best to contact a professional, so you get the correct compensation you deserve without any workaround and confusion.
When do I contact an attorney?
Suppose you are in an accident that meets any of these requirements or suggestions to contact an attorney; the sooner, the better. Avoid talking to an insurance company without consulting your attorney first. The sooner you contact your attorney, the sooner you can get a claim filed since the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact Utah Personal Injury Law to have a free consultation today! You may be entitled to some compensation for any medical expenses, loss of property, etc. Contact us now by calling us at (801) 839-4411.</font color>
