What to Do After a Car Accident to Protect My Claim
Over six million car accidents occur each year, resulting in roughly 5.2 million people requiring medical care. A car accident can happen in the blink of an eye; while you may be driving to pick up your kid from soccer practice one moment, the next you may find your vehicle broadsided by a driver who failed to yield right-of-way. With all the information out there about what to do after a car accident, you may wonder whether you took the right steps.
The car accident lawyers at Fanelli, Evans, & Patel want to ensure that you preserve your right to file a claim. In this blog, our legal team discusses what you should do immediately after a crash to protect your medical, legal, and financial rights.
Priority #1: Get Medical Help Right Away
A collision can result in various injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Your health comes first, and getting proper medical care also creates crucial documentation for your claim.
Call for emergency services if you experience any of the following:
- Difficulty moving or loss of mobility
- Tingling, numbness, or loss of sensation
- Nausea or dizziness
- Any other concerning symptoms
Emergency medical services will be dispatched to the accident scene. They will assess your injuries and transport you to the hospital if needed. Even if you do not require an ambulance ride, you should head to the emergency room if you have any symptoms of injury.
When You Feel Uninjured
Even if you have no apparent injuries, you should still schedule an appointment to be evaluated by your primary care doctor within 72 hours. When scheduling, be sure to let the office know you were in a car accident and need a full physical examination to rule out any underlying issues. Many serious injuries, such as internal bleeding or soft tissue damage, may not show symptoms immediately.
Report the Crash to Law Enforcement
Pennsylvania law requires you to call the police following a motor vehicle crash if there are any injuries, fatalities, or if any vehicle is damaged to the point that it must be towed.
The responding police officer will:
- Take down your information and the information of all drivers involved
- Document a description of the accident
- Note who they believe is at fault
- Collect statements from any eyewitnesses present
A police report can be persuasive evidence of liability in insurance claims.
How Your Attorney Builds Your Case
Your lawyer will compile a comprehensive claims package that includes:
- Photos from the accident scene
- The police report
- Medical documentation and records
- Evidence of lost wages
- Other supporting information
Your attorney will draft a demand letter detailing the relief you seek and setting a deadline for the insurance company’s response. A car accident attorney will handle all communications with your insurance company on your behalf, including settlement negotiations.
Contact a Pottsville Car Accident Lawyer Today
At Fanelli, Evans, & Patel, we have seen firsthand the devastation a crash can cause to an individual and their immediate family. If you are interested in learning more about our approach, our Pottsville car accident attorneys are happy to speak with you. To schedule your free consultation with an attorney, contact us online or by phone at (570) 622-2455.