Steps To Take After An Injury Or Accident

Steps To Take After An Injury Or Accident

When it comes to unexpected experiences that may occur in our lives, a car accident or injury is undeniably one of the most stressful events one can experience. Because a car accident will not only prove to be highly traumatic, it can also result in devastating injuries to those parties involved. Imperative to keep in mind is that we all need to be somewhat prepared beforehand just in case we find ourselves the victims of a car accident.

Preparing yourself in case you experience the event of a car accident, there are a few suggestions to keep in mind:

Ensure all are okay

Immediately following any car accident, the first and foremost thing you should do is to ensure that all parties involved are okay and are not in need of help for any life-threatening injuries they may suffer from.  If there is any doubt about possible injuries, the rule of thumb dictates that an ambulance be called to the scene.

The most vital thing you need to keep in mind is that any car accident is stressful and frightening, but you must try to remain calm and take a deep breath.  If you allow your stress and fear to take control after a car accident, then it may lead to rash decisions and statements that you may very well regret down the road.

Do Not Make Apologies

When and individual is involved in an accident, it i stypical for them to be polite and make a statement such as, "I am sorry I wasn't watching where I was going.  I was distracted."  If this type of statement is made at the scene, the opposing party will use it against you and attempt to hold you liable for the accident.

Generally, in most cases, the opposing party will not be willing to admit a mistake or take the blame for the accident and will, inturn, use a statement like the one above, made on the spur of the moment, to prove that you were at fault—even if you weren't.  When you finally attempt to file a claim for the accident, a statement like this will undoubtedly come back to haunt you.

Talk To Witnesses

As soon as possible, begin gathering contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident occur.  You must start the claim process as soon as the accident occurs and as soon as you can, during the time that you are waiting for the police and, if needed ambulance to arrive.  

At this time, you should also get the name of the other parties involved in the accident, their license, and address, and the name of the individual that the car involved is currently registered to.

Always Call The Police

When law enforcement arrives, you must state the events o fthe accident, but you are never to admit that you were at fault.  When involved in an accident, and especially with a vehicle accident that may be serious, it can prove difficult not to discuss the events with others.  

However, it is essential to understand that you need to limit any conversations about the accident to only law enforcement and your attorney if need be.  The insurance company of any other parties involved may attempt to reach out and contact you.  Still, it will be in your best interest to only speak with them under your attorney's sole direction and supervision.

Contact Your Insurance Immediately

If possible, once the police have arrived, you should contact your insurance company while still at the scene of the accident.  The reason is that in most cases, a law enforcement officer will be able to offer more accurate and valid information,which in turn can speed up the time it may take to process your claim.  

If it is impossible to call from the scene of the accident, call your insurance agent as soon as possible. There is a chance that if you do not notify your insurance company promptly, they may deny your claim.  When you contact the proper individual, keep the facts of the events and your comments brief.  Not all insurance companies, even your own, will necessarily have your best interests in mind.

Document The Accident

With all accidents, law enforcement will document any evidence necessary.  However, it is always best to have your own documentation, such as physical damage to your vehicle and the scene of the accident, so that you may present it to your insurance company.  The documented information may prove vital in case of any dispute of your claim that may occur in the future.

The Bryant Law Firm has helped thousands of injury victims in the Greater Houston Area and all across Texas. Let David A. Bryant, Jr. help you get the appropriate medical treatment and compensation you deserve.

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