An auto accident can turn life upside down. Physical pain, along with financial burdens from medical bills, missed workdays, and the stress of dealing with insurance, can take a toll on your well-being. Taking the right steps immediately after an accident is crucial. Your health and fair compensation depend on it. This guide will show you what to do to safeguard your rights and build a strong case.
At Strickland & Kendall, we understand how insurance companies operate. They often pressure accident victims into quick, low settlements that don’t meet their needs. Don’t let your rights slip away. Following these steps can help you avoid common mistakes and secure the compensation you deserve.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Prioritize Your Health
Right after an accident, you might feel fine. Even if you feel like nothing is wrong, it’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible. Adrenaline can mask pain, and injuries like whiplash or internal damage may not appear right away. Seeing a doctor not only protects your health but also creates a medical record that documents the extent of your injuries. This record is crucial if insurers question the seriousness of your injuries.
Create a Record of Injuries
Having documentation of your medical care is essential. Visiting a doctor makes it harder for insurers to deny your needs or claim that your injuries aren’t serious. Taking care of your health now can help protect your claim later on.
2. Document the Accident Scene
Take Photos and Videos
Once you know everyone’s safe, document the scene. Photos and videos evidence is powerful. It can help you create a detailed account of what happened. Take pictures of the vehicle positions, the damage, your injuries, and the road conditions. These images support your claim, especially if there’s any disagreement over who is at fault.
Preserve Additional Evidence
Beyond photos, keep any other evidence you can gather. Things like a police report or damaged personal items can be helpful. These details strengthen your case and help present a full picture of what happened.
3. Collect Witness Information
Get Contact Details
Witnesses can be valuable if fault is disputed. If bystanders saw the accident, ask for their contact information—names, phone numbers, or emails—so they can provide a statement. Witness testimony strengthens your case, making it harder for insurers to twist the facts in their favor.
Request Statements When Possible
If a witness is willing, ask for a brief statement of what they saw. Witnesses often see things you might miss, which can add accuracy to your claim.
4. Notify Your Insurance Provider
Report Without Delay
Reporting the accident to your insurance company may feel intimidating, but it’s essential. Waiting could hurt your claim, giving insurers a reason to question. When you report, keep it simple: stick to the basic facts—who was involved, where and when it happened, and what happened next.
Stick to the Facts
It’s easy to over-explain when under stress. Avoid guessing or admitting fault if at all possible. Keep your comments factual, focusing on what you know for sure. Insurance adjusters are always looking for a reason to justify a lower payout, don’t give them one if you can avoid it. If you’re unsure, let your attorney handle it.
5. Avoid Admitting Fault or Signing Anything Prematurely
Understand Insurance Tactics
Insurance companies may offer quick settlements or ask you to sign documents soon after the accident. These offers might feel like relief, but they’re often lowball amounts that don’t cover your costs. Insurers know that financial stress makes quick settlements appealing, but these early offers rarely cover everything.
Seek Guidance Before Signing
Before agreeing to anything, consult a qualified personal injury attorney Early settlements could prevent you from receiving additional compensation if further medical needs or financial impacts come up later. An attorney ensures that any settlement truly reflects your long-term needs. With expert guidance, you can avoid the trap of settling too soon.
6. Keep Detailed Records of All Expenses
Track Medical Bills and Repair Costs
Every expense related to the accident can impact your compensation. Start a file for medical bills, vehicle repairs, prescriptions, therapy, and other related costs. Keeping a detailed record strengthens your case and makes it harder to dispute your needs.
Include Lost Income and Future Costs
If you miss work due to your injuries, document lost wages and even lost hours at work. Future expenses, like more treatments or rehabilitation. These can add up quickly, so factoring them into your claim helps protect you from future out-of-pocket costs.
7. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Protect Your Rights
Dealing with insurance companies on your own can be overwhelming, especially when you’re managing injuries and financial stress. Insurance adjusters are skilled at lowering payouts. A proven attorney on your side can keep you protected and positioned for a fair settlement.
Let Strickland & Kendall Handle the Complexities
At Strickland & Kendall, we’ve helped countless clients through this process, advocating for the compensation they deserve. We know the strategies that work and take on the insurers for you so you can focus on healing. From assessing damages to negotiating, our team is here to protect your interests every step of the way.
Take Control of Your Compensation Journey
An auto accident is disruptive, but with the right steps, you can protect your health and secure fair compensation. By focusing on medical care, collecting evidence, being cautious with insurance adjusters, and working with a trusted attorney, you’re building a strong foundation for your recovery.
Strickland & Kendall is here to guide you through each step. Contact us today to learn how we can help you maximize your compensation and support you during this difficult time. Don’t face this process alone—let us be your advocate in getting the compensation you deserve.