Your health and safety come first. If you are able, move to a safe location and call 911. Even if your injuries seem minor, request that police respond to the scene. A police report creates an official record of the accident and documents key details that can be difficult to reconstruct later.
While you are still at the scene, take photos of everything: the vehicles, the damage, the road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver, and collect names and phone numbers from any witnesses.
Get Medical Attention Immediately
Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Many injuries, particularly soft tissue injuries, concussions, and internal injuries, do not present symptoms immediately. Delaying treatment creates a gap in your medical records that insurance companies will use against you. They will argue that if you were truly hurt, you would have seen a doctor right away.
Do Not Speak to the Insurance Company
Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company. The adjuster may sound friendly, but their job is to minimize what the company pays you. Anything you say can be taken out of context and used to reduce or deny your claim. You are not required to provide a recorded statement, and you should not do so without first speaking to an attorney.
Stay Off Social Media
Do not post about the accident on social media. Insurance companies and defense attorneys monitor claimants' social media accounts and will use your posts, photos, and even check-ins to argue that your injuries are not as serious as you claim.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney Before Accepting Any Offer
Finally, contact a personal injury attorney before you accept any settlement offer. Insurance companies often extend quick, low offers in the days following an accident, hoping to close the claim before you fully understand the extent of your injuries. Once you accept a settlement, you cannot go back and ask for more, even if your condition worsens. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, advise you on the true value of your claim, and handle all communications with the insurance company on your behalf.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact us today for a free consultation.