All too often individuals suffer long after an auto accident because they fail to take relatively easy steps to ensure a better medical and legal recovery. If you are ever, or were recently in an auto accident, here are some guidelines about what to do next:
At the scene of the accident:
Call the police and ask for a copy of the police report.
Exchange insurance information, vehicle information, names, phone numbers and license plate numbers with all drivers involved in the accident.
Use your cellphone to take pictures of the damaged vehicles, the scene of the accident and any noticeable injuries.
If there were any witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers.
If you are injured (or think you may be) do not refuse medical treatment, go to the hospital – it’s always better to err on the side of safety.
If you think you may be injured, and you have not already done so, seek medical attention!
Be honest with your doctors regarding the extent of your injury and any past injuries you may have sustained.
It is important to your health and your case that accident related injuries are immediately documented and treated.
If you hide something now it will be used against you later, but if you are honest and transparent today, no one can question your character later. You are your own star witness – character is everything!
If you have not already done so, take pictures of the damaged vehicle(s) and noticeable injuries.
Do NOT make any recorded statements to an insurance company.
The insurance adjuster’s job is to find a reason to pay you and your doctor(s_ as little as possible for your claim.
Do not be fooled by a friendly voice, adjusters are not your friend; they will exploit any inadvertent misstatement you may make and have also been known to “edit” written and recorded statements to favor the insurance company.
For these reasons, we want to be present when you speak with your insurance company, if they are going to record the conversation – so are we!
