In the moments immediately after a car accident, you may encounter various obstacles. The issues you run into can significantly impact your claim, but you can take various steps that help protect your ability to obtain compensation. What you do following your traumatic event can make or break your case from the very beginning.
These six steps are imperative to your claim:
- Check to ensure everyone is okay and exchange vital information
- Call 911 if someone is injured and report the crash to your insurance company
- Speak with witnesses who may have seen how your crash occurred
- Take photos of your accident scene, vehicle damages, and visible injuries
- See a doctor as soon as possible to begin your treatment
- Hire a lawyer to represent you against insurance adjusters
Call our firm today at (888) 444-8508.
1. Check for Injuries and Exchange Information
Everyone’s well-being should be a top priority. Make sure everyone is okay and immediately call 911 if someone has suffered injuries. As long as you’re able to, exchange information including insurance provider name and policy number, driver’s license and plate number, and contact information.
2. Report Your Crash to Your Insurance and Local Law Enforcement
Report your crash, along with the information you have to your insurance provider. If you’re unsure whether you need to report your crash to local law enforcement, it’s best to call them. If they come out to the scene to investigate, they’ll create an accident report complete with statements and facts from the accident scene that can help build your case.
3. Speak with Witnesses
If you see anyone around your accident scene who may have witnessed the crash, speak with them. Ask if the witnesses are willing to provide a statement and their contact information. The more you can provide to your insurance company, the stronger your claim for compensation. If your damages exceed the serious injury threshold, a witness statement can help you hold the negligent driver accountable.
4. Take Specific Photos
You should take specific photos that help build your evidence, including the following:
- The accident scene. Be sure to show any road hazards that may have contributed to your crash.
- The vehicle damages. Show damage on your vehicle, as well as the other vehicle. An accident reconstructionist can use this to show how the crash occurred.
- The visible injuries. If you suffer harm, show your damages to help pursue maximum compensation.
5. See a Doctor As Soon As Possible
Your health is the most important thing, so speaking with a medical professional about your treatment following an injury should be one of your top priorities. Your doctor can create a treatment plan and provide you with a vital medical record indicating how severe your injuries are and what type of compensation you may be able to pursue.
6. Hire an Experienced Lawyer
While you may feel that you can handle a claim on your own, insurance adjusters are hoping you don’t hire a lawyer. These trained professionals utilize unethical tactics to take advantage of your challenging position. Hiring a lawyer helps you level the playing field, giving you the opportunity to utilize all evidence to pursue the outcome you deserve.
At Burnetti, P.A., we work hard for you during one of the most difficult times. Our car accident attorneys provide the highest level of advocacy to clients throughout all of Florida, and when you need us, you can trust our team to be in your corner. We provide the tools, experience, and resources necessary to obtain success. Put your trust in us to look out for your best interests.
Need to discuss your case in a free consultation? Call our firm today at (888) 444-8508 and learn how we can safeguard your rights and options.
