Top 5 Tips of what to do after an Auto-Accident
My brother recently got into a car accident. He is a working professional over 40 years old. He knew I was an attorney. He knew that many of our other family members and friends were attorneys. Yet, immediately after the accident, he had no clue what to do, precipitating my need to write this article. Regardless if the accident is automobile versus pedestrian, automobile versus bicycle, or automobile versus automobile, here are my top five tips of what to do (and not-do) after an auto-accident:
Exchange Information
You should obtain contact information for all passengers (not just the driver), car insurance, driver's license, vehicle information. These are all potential witnesses and not all accidents involve police, so this will be key information.
2. Take Photographs and Video
Everyone has a smartphone. I have seen one too many cases (including cases involving deaths) where there were no photographs and videos. I am sure you will be frazzled but take as many photographs and videos as you can.
3. Contact Your Insurance
Inform them about the accident, but do NOT discuss the case with your insurance. Insurance companies are great businesses and make lots of money, but they are not your friend. They do not actually care about how you are feeling or how you are doing. I have seen numerous statements that client's initially feel "okay" be used against them in denying all claims. Do not make any statements to insurance without consulting first with an attorney.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Do not wait days or weeks until pain becomes unbearable before you seek treatment. I understand you work, and family commitments are important, but so is your health. Furthermore, delay in receiving treatment is often a primary reason for having a claim devalued by insurance.
5. Call the Police
This will typically help you in several ways. First, the likelihood of getting into an altercation decreases when police are called. Second, individuals tend to be less likely to lie to police, even though they are not under oath. Third, police will typically be good about collecting basic information in case you failed to do so. In addition, in some cases, the other driver or individual may be unwilling to exchange information. However, please note that police often do not take photographs or videos unless serious injuries or death occur.
By viewing the information, you understand and expressly agree that any and all information provided does not establish an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to provide any legal advice.