Car accidents are very common occurrences, but when you're involved in one you may not have any idea of what to do. This can be especially true when you did not cause the car accident but you were injured in the wreck. How you react immediately after a car accident can make a big difference in the long run, so you need to take the proper steps. Right after a car accident that was not your fault, do the following things:
Call the Police
When there is an auto accident that causes significant vehicle damage or an injury, it is imperative to call the police right away. You will need the police report when filing a claim with the other driver's insurance company. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may also need assistance from first responders who can triage you at the scene of the accident and then transport you to the hospital if you need immediate medical care.
Talk to Witnesses
In many cases, there are usually witnesses to a car accident. If you are physically able to, it is in your best interest to collect the contact information of any witnesses on the scene. The witnesses may be able to present invaluable accounts of how the accident happened, which can further prove that the other driver was at fault.
Make an Appointment with Your Doctor
Even if you are not bleeding or showing signs of broken bones or other serious injuries, you still need to see your doctor as soon as possible. It is not uncommon for the extent of the injuries from a car accident to show up hours or days later, after adrenaline has worn off and your muscles tighten up. Car accidents often cause injuries to the back and neck which may not be immediately apparent on the scene, so the sooner you see your doctor the better. In addition, your medical records will also be used when negotiating a settlement with the other driver's insurance company.
Hire a Lawyer
One of the best things you can do after you're injured in an auto accident that is not your fault is hire a reputable auto accident lawyer. Having an attorney representing you can increase the size of your settlement and may also make the insurance company think twice before offering a low-ball settlement. Your attorney will also communicate with the other driver's insurance company so you don't have to.
Contact a law firm like Loughlin Fitzgerald P C for more information and assistance.
Share9 July 2017
The laws governing child custody and guardianship can be confusing. As a family attorney, I have helped many clients gain legal guardianship over a foster child or a relative's child. Getting legal guardianship of a child you are caring for is important because you need to be able to make decisions about that child's education, health care and other matters. This blog will help you navigate the world of legal guardianship and show you how to take steps to get guardianship over a child whether the child's parents are cooperative or not. Legal guardianship does matter even if a child is not going to be adopted. I hope to help people find the way to get this done.