What to Do After an Accident

If you are involved in a car accident, your initial concern might not be legal consequences. Nevertheless, the steps that you take immediately following an accident—and also in the weeks after—could determine whether you are the one who is receiving or paying compensation.

At the scene of an accident

The first step after a car accident occurs, of course, is to make sure that everybody is safe and that nobody requires immediate medical attention. Next, you will want to take several steps to establish how the accident actually happened:

• Call the police so that an official report can be filed
• Take photographs, if possible, of the scene of the accident from several different angles and of any damage to your car and any apparent injuries
• Get the contact information and statements of any witnesses to the accident
• Exchange contact information with the other party involved in the accident

These simple actions could play an important role in securing compensation. The success of an auto accident claim hinges on the question of negligence: was the other driver careless? Without the necessary evidence to support your story, the insurance company may resist paying you the compensation that you deserve.

You should remember not to say anything to the other party or police that could be used against you (even apologizing may be interpreted as implying fault).

Beyond the accident

After you have spoken to the police, you may want to contact an auto accident attorney to learn more about what to expect and how to avoid any missteps. A lawyer’s advice could be especially useful before speaking to the other party’s insurance claims adjusters, who will in all likelihood try to show that the other party was not responsible, or even that you were responsible for the accident.

Staying organized

If you are filing a personal injury claim, you will have to show that you have incurred damages. Damages can take the form of expenses related to your injury or emotional pain and suffering. If you have received medical treatments for injuries, then you should have copies of the bills. If you are claiming lost wages due to absence from work, then you should be ready to present copies of paychecks and income tax records.

Documents related to an auto accident lawsuit could start piling up. A skilled car accident lawyer can help you stay organized.

Call us at 314-732-0480 or contact us with our online form to speak with a Saint Louis auto accident attorney.