Top 10 Things to do Right Away if You’ve Been in a Car Crash | Schneider Injury law

Having a police report from the scene of the collision is very important when it comes to filing a lawsuit. It proves who was involved in the crash, how the crash occurred, and most times who was at fault for the crash.  The police officer will also document the extent of property damage and whether anyone is complaining of injuries.

Do not move it (as long as it is safe to leave it at the exact location of the accident) until police officers arrive. Leaving the vehicles at the point of impact is invaluable for police accident reconstruction and determining who was at fault for the crash.

Make sure to tell first responders if you are experiencing any pain or other symptoms and follow their directions as they render urgent care. If you are hurt, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Waiting to see if the pain goes away on its own can be harmful to a bodily injury claim later on.  If you have any doubts about whether you are injured or the extent of your injuries, let EMS transport you to a local hospital for evaluation.  Sometimes shock can mask pain or injuries at the scene.  The longer you wait to get medical attention, the harder it will be to prove later on that your injuries were caused by the collision.

If possible, use the voice memo app on your smartphone to record key details so that you do not that you might overlook in the commotion. Do not speculate or make statements to anyone other than police officers, as what is said may be interpreted as an admission of legal liability for the accident.

Use your phone to take pictures of driver’s license(s), registration, insurance cards, and license plate numbers.

You should document the positions of the vehicles and take photographs from different angles. This should be done as you continue to gather information regarding vehicle damage and the accident scene itself. However, please ensure that it is safe for you to take such photos without jeopardizing or interfering with the officers’ investigation.

Be sure to ask the officer for your case number.

Most insurance policies require prompt notification. Filing a claim triggers the initial coverage to which you are entitled while the claim is pending.

To access maximum compensation for physical harm, lost income, pain and suffering, out-of-pocket expenses, property damage, and all other appropriate money damages, you should speak with a skilled personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate and take advantage of the entire scope of insurance coverage benefits that may be available to you.

Chronicle all your thoughts, including your challenges, while they are fresh in your mind. This history can prove to be helpful when it is used as part of the supporting documentation for your claim.