Saturday, February 7, 2015

After a Car Accident: First Steps

Auto accidents are unexpected and stressful. Even the most careful drivers may be involved. If you are in an accident, State Farm® is committed to helping restore your peace of mind as soon as possible. If you have recently been involved in an accident, begin reporting a claim.

Be Prepared


  • Carry a set of cones, warning triangles, or emergency flares in your trunk to help alert traffic.
  • It also helps to have a pen and a card with any relevant medical information for you and your family.

Immediately After an Accident


  • Take a deep breath and stay calm.
  • Check for injuries; call an ambulance when in doubt.
  • If accident is minor, move cars to a safe place, out of traffic.
  • Turn on your vehicle's hazard lights and use cones, warning triangles or flares for safety.
  • Call the police, even if the accident is minor.
  • Notify your insurance agent immediately.

Other Important Tips


  • Do not sign any document unless it's for the police or your insurance agent.
  • Make immediate notes about the accident, including specific damages to all vehicles involved, witness information, etc.
  • If the name on an auto registration is different than the driver, jot down the relationship.
  • Be polite, but don't tell anyone the accident was your fault, even if you think it was.
  • State only the facts, and limit your discussion of the accident to the police and your insurance agent.
  • If possible, don't leave the accident scene before the police and other drivers do.
What should you do if you're in a car accident? When it happens, injuries may be severe and emotions high. However, there are important things to do at the scene of the accident and soon afterward. Below is a list of things to do after an accident, if possible. Keep this information handy by printing this helpful pamphlet on first steps after an auto accident and storing it in your car.
If you have been injured in a car accident, have an experienced injury attorney review your claim free of charge. If you have a valid claim, many attorneys will wait until you have settled your case to collect their fees.
Stay at the Scene
Never leave the accident scene until it's appropriate to do so. If you leave, particularly where someone has sustained injuries or was killed, you can face serious criminal penalties for being a hit-and-run driver.
Check on All Drivers and Passengers
Before assessing property damage, make sure everyone involved in the accident is okay. Get medical attention for anyone who needs it. If a person is unconscious or has neck or back pain, don't move them until qualified medical help arrives, unless a hazard requires moving the person.
Call the Police
If there's significant property damage, physical injury, or death, you need to call the police. Ask that a police report  be filed in situations where cops do arrive at the scene, and obtain the name and badge numbers of the responding officers.
Exchange Information
Get the names, numbers, addresses, drivers' license numbers, license plate numbers, and basic insurance information from all drivers involved. If there are passengers, also obtain their names, numbers, and addresses. In talking to other drivers, try to be cordial and cooperative.
However, you shouldn't apologize for anything at the scene. For example, if you say, "I'm so sorry I ran that red light! Is everyone okay?" you may be admitting legal liability for what happened. Immediately after an accident, it might not be clear who was at fault or more at fault. Moreover, in many states, fault isn't determinative of which insurer will pay for any loss. Therefore, try not to admit guilt unintentionally or unnecessarily.
Talk to Witnesses
Ask every witness what he or she saw. Get their names, numbers, or addresses, if possible. Ask locals if they've ever witnessed other accidents in the same place.
Inform Your Insurance Company
Promptly tell your insurance company you've been in an accident. Cooperate with them and tell them the truth about what happened and the extent of your injuries. Explain the facts clearly. If the insurance company finds out that you've lied to them about anything, you can get into serious trouble, including possible denial of coverage for the accident. Obtain and review any police report filed, so you can point out who broke what traffic laws or who was at fault.
Keep Track of Your Medical Treatment
Note any doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, or other medical professionals that you receive treatment from, and each medical provider that referred you to other caregivers. Keep a detailed account of the treatments or medications you receive. Also, request copies of all medical reports and bills as these help you prove your medical expenses later.
Medical expenses are relatively easy to document, but pain and suffering is trickier to prove. Keep a record of how your injuries have impacted your daily life. Include any missed workdays, list any routine activities you can't undertake, and describe how the injuries have affected your family life.
Take Pictures
Take photographs of any damage to your vehicle as soon as possible after the accident. Photos helps your insurance adjuster determine how much you should be compensated for the damage to your car and can help in court. Pictures of your car before the accident can offer a great "compare and contrast" to show the true extent of the damage sustained in the accident.
Get a Property Damage Valuation
Obtain your insurance company's damage valuation. If you aren't satisfied with how your insurance company has valued your vehicle, don't give up. Get two independent repair estimates or replacement quotes. Assertively inform the adjuster of your concerns. If you can't agree on your car's value, consider mediation or consult an attorney.
Use Caution in Discussing the Incident
Don't talk to anyone about the accident other than your lawyer, your insurance company, and the police. Don't talk to a representative of another insurance company, without the knowledge of your attorney or insurer. If called by the other insurance company, be polite, but ask them to call your attorney or insurer to arrange an interview. Also, tell your lawyer or insurer about the call.
Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers
Be careful if you're offered a settlement from an insurance company. Confirm all your physical injuries have been treated. Some injuries don't show up or reach their greatest level of discomfort until many days, weeks, or months later. Don't settle a claim until you know you'll be compensated for all your injuries, and consult an attorney before signing any settlement documents.
Consider Hiring an Attorney
If anyone was injured in the accident, it's best to consult an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you maximize your recovery if you're injured or better defend yourself if you're at fault. Most accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. That means that your lawyer only receives a fee if you're awarded damages or receive a settlement. Contact an experienced attorney now for a free claim review.
- See more at: http://images.findlaw.com/optimost/accident-injury-law/after-a-car-accident-3.html#sthash.L997sDmY.dpuf
What should you do if you're in a car accident? When it happens, injuries may be severe and emotions high. However, there are important things to do at the scene of the accident and soon afterward. Below is a list of things to do after an accident, if possible. Keep this information handy by printing this helpful pamphlet on first steps after an auto accident and storing it in your car.
If you have been injured in a car accident, have an experienced injury attorney review your claim free of charge. If you have a valid claim, many attorneys will wait until you have settled your case to collect their fees.
Stay at the Scene
Never leave the accident scene until it's appropriate to do so. If you leave, particularly where someone has sustained injuries or was killed, you can face serious criminal penalties for being a hit-and-run driver.
Check on All Drivers and Passengers
Before assessing property damage, make sure everyone involved in the accident is okay. Get medical attention for anyone who needs it. If a person is unconscious or has neck or back pain, don't move them until qualified medical help arrives, unless a hazard requires moving the person.
Call the Police
If there's significant property damage, physical injury, or death, you need to call the police. Ask that a police report  be filed in situations where cops do arrive at the scene, and obtain the name and badge numbers of the responding officers.
Exchange Information
Get the names, numbers, addresses, drivers' license numbers, license plate numbers, and basic insurance information from all drivers involved. If there are passengers, also obtain their names, numbers, and addresses. In talking to other drivers, try to be cordial and cooperative.
However, you shouldn't apologize for anything at the scene. For example, if you say, "I'm so sorry I ran that red light! Is everyone okay?" you may be admitting legal liability for what happened. Immediately after an accident, it might not be clear who was at fault or more at fault. Moreover, in many states, fault isn't determinative of which insurer will pay for any loss. Therefore, try not to admit guilt unintentionally or unnecessarily.
Talk to Witnesses
Ask every witness what he or she saw. Get their names, numbers, or addresses, if possible. Ask locals if they've ever witnessed other accidents in the same place.
Inform Your Insurance Company
Promptly tell your insurance company you've been in an accident. Cooperate with them and tell them the truth about what happened and the extent of your injuries. Explain the facts clearly. If the insurance company finds out that you've lied to them about anything, you can get into serious trouble, including possible denial of coverage for the accident. Obtain and review any police report filed, so you can point out who broke what traffic laws or who was at fault.
Keep Track of Your Medical Treatment
Note any doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, or other medical professionals that you receive treatment from, and each medical provider that referred you to other caregivers. Keep a detailed account of the treatments or medications you receive. Also, request copies of all medical reports and bills as these help you prove your medical expenses later.
Medical expenses are relatively easy to document, but pain and suffering is trickier to prove. Keep a record of how your injuries have impacted your daily life. Include any missed workdays, list any routine activities you can't undertake, and describe how the injuries have affected your family life.
Take Pictures
Take photographs of any damage to your vehicle as soon as possible after the accident. Photos helps your insurance adjuster determine how much you should be compensated for the damage to your car and can help in court. Pictures of your car before the accident can offer a great "compare and contrast" to show the true extent of the damage sustained in the accident.
Get a Property Damage Valuation
Obtain your insurance company's damage valuation. If you aren't satisfied with how your insurance company has valued your vehicle, don't give up. Get two independent repair estimates or replacement quotes. Assertively inform the adjuster of your concerns. If you can't agree on your car's value, consider mediation or consult an attorney.
Use Caution in Discussing the Incident
Don't talk to anyone about the accident other than your lawyer, your insurance company, and the police. Don't talk to a representative of another insurance company, without the knowledge of your attorney or insurer. If called by the other insurance company, be polite, but ask them to call your attorney or insurer to arrange an interview. Also, tell your lawyer or insurer about the call.
Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers
Be careful if you're offered a settlement from an insurance company. Confirm all your physical injuries have been treated. Some injuries don't show up or reach their greatest level of discomfort until many days, weeks, or months later. Don't settle a claim until you know you'll be compensated for all your injuries, and consult an attorney before signing any settlement documents.
Consider Hiring an Attorney
If anyone was injured in the accident, it's best to consult an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you maximize your recovery if you're injured or better defend yourself if you're at fault. Most accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. That means that your lawyer only receives a fee if you're awarded damages or receive a settlement. Contact an experienced attorney now for a free claim review.
- See more at: http://images.findlaw.com/optimost/accident-injury-law/after-a-car-accident-3.html#sthash.L997sDmY.dpuf
What should you do if you're in a car accident? When it happens, injuries may be severe and emotions high. However, there are important things to do at the scene of the accident and soon afterward. Below is a list of things to do after an accident, if possible. Keep this information handy by printing this helpful pamphlet on first steps after an auto accident and storing it in your car.
If you have been injured in a car accident, have an experienced injury attorney review your claim free of charge. If you have a valid claim, many attorneys will wait until you have settled your case to collect their fees.
Stay at the Scene
Never leave the accident scene until it's appropriate to do so. If you leave, particularly where someone has sustained injuries or was killed, you can face serious criminal penalties for being a hit-and-run driver.
Check on All Drivers and Passengers
Before assessing property damage, make sure everyone involved in the accident is okay. Get medical attention for anyone who needs it. If a person is unconscious or has neck or back pain, don't move them until qualified medical help arrives, unless a hazard requires moving the person.
Call the Police
If there's significant property damage, physical injury, or death, you need to call the police. Ask that a police report  be filed in situations where cops do arrive at the scene, and obtain the name and badge numbers of the responding officers.
Exchange Information
Get the names, numbers, addresses, drivers' license numbers, license plate numbers, and basic insurance information from all drivers involved. If there are passengers, also obtain their names, numbers, and addresses. In talking to other drivers, try to be cordial and cooperative.
However, you shouldn't apologize for anything at the scene. For example, if you say, "I'm so sorry I ran that red light! Is everyone okay?" you may be admitting legal liability for what happened. Immediately after an accident, it might not be clear who was at fault or more at fault. Moreover, in many states, fault isn't determinative of which insurer will pay for any loss. Therefore, try not to admit guilt unintentionally or unnecessarily.
Talk to Witnesses
Ask every witness what he or she saw. Get their names, numbers, or addresses, if possible. Ask locals if they've ever witnessed other accidents in the same place.
Inform Your Insurance Company
Promptly tell your insurance company you've been in an accident. Cooperate with them and tell them the truth about what happened and the extent of your injuries. Explain the facts clearly. If the insurance company finds out that you've lied to them about anything, you can get into serious trouble, including possible denial of coverage for the accident. Obtain and review any police report filed, so you can point out who broke what traffic laws or who was at fault.
Keep Track of Your Medical Treatment
Note any doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, or other medical professionals that you receive treatment from, and each medical provider that referred you to other caregivers. Keep a detailed account of the treatments or medications you receive. Also, request copies of all medical reports and bills as these help you prove your medical expenses later.
Medical expenses are relatively easy to document, but pain and suffering is trickier to prove. Keep a record of how your injuries have impacted your daily life. Include any missed workdays, list any routine activities you can't undertake, and describe how the injuries have affected your family life.
Take Pictures
Take photographs of any damage to your vehicle as soon as possible after the accident. Photos helps your insurance adjuster determine how much you should be compensated for the damage to your car and can help in court. Pictures of your car before the accident can offer a great "compare and contrast" to show the true extent of the damage sustained in the accident.
Get a Property Damage Valuation
Obtain your insurance company's damage valuation. If you aren't satisfied with how your insurance company has valued your vehicle, don't give up. Get two independent repair estimates or replacement quotes. Assertively inform the adjuster of your concerns. If you can't agree on your car's value, consider mediation or consult an attorney.
Use Caution in Discussing the Incident
Don't talk to anyone about the accident other than your lawyer, your insurance company, and the police. Don't talk to a representative of another insurance company, without the knowledge of your attorney or insurer. If called by the other insurance company, be polite, but ask them to call your attorney or insurer to arrange an interview. Also, tell your lawyer or insurer about the call.
Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers
Be careful if you're offered a settlement from an insurance company. Confirm all your physical injuries have been treated. Some injuries don't show up or reach their greatest level of discomfort until many days, weeks, or months later. Don't settle a claim until you know you'll be compensated for all your injuries, and consult an attorney before signing any settlement documents.
Consider Hiring an Attorney
If anyone was injured in the accident, it's best to consult an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you maximize your recovery if you're injured or better defend yourself if you're at fault. Most accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. That means that your lawyer only receives a fee if you're awarded damages or receive a settlement. Contact an experienced attorney now for a free claim review.
- See more at: http://images.findlaw.com/optimost/accident-injury-law/after-a-car-accident-3.html#sthash.L997sDmY.dpuf
What should you do if you're in a car accident? When it happens, injuries may be severe and emotions high. However, there are important things to do at the scene of the accident and soon afterward. Below is a list of things to do after an accident, if possible. Keep this information handy by printing this helpful pamphlet on first steps after an auto accident and storing it in your car.
If you have been injured in a car accident, have an experienced injury attorney review your claim free of charge. If you have a valid claim, many attorneys will wait until you have settled your case to collect their fees.
Stay at the Scene
Never leave the accident scene until it's appropriate to do so. If you leave, particularly where someone has sustained injuries or was killed, you can face serious criminal penalties for being a hit-and-run driver.
Check on All Drivers and Passengers
Before assessing property damage, make sure everyone involved in the accident is okay. Get medical attention for anyone who needs it. If a person is unconscious or has neck or back pain, don't move them until qualified medical help arrives, unless a hazard requires moving the person.
Call the Police
If there's significant property damage, physical injury, or death, you need to call the police. Ask that a police report  be filed in situations where cops do arrive at the scene, and obtain the name and badge numbers of the responding officers.
Exchange Information
Get the names, numbers, addresses, drivers' license numbers, license plate numbers, and basic insurance information from all drivers involved. If there are passengers, also obtain their names, numbers, and addresses. In talking to other drivers, try to be cordial and cooperative.
However, you shouldn't apologize for anything at the scene. For example, if you say, "I'm so sorry I ran that red light! Is everyone okay?" you may be admitting legal liability for what happened. Immediately after an accident, it might not be clear who was at fault or more at fault. Moreover, in many states, fault isn't determinative of which insurer will pay for any loss. Therefore, try not to admit guilt unintentionally or unnecessarily.
Talk to Witnesses
Ask every witness what he or she saw. Get their names, numbers, or addresses, if possible. Ask locals if they've ever witnessed other accidents in the same place.
Inform Your Insurance Company
Promptly tell your insurance company you've been in an accident. Cooperate with them and tell them the truth about what happened and the extent of your injuries. Explain the facts clearly. If the insurance company finds out that you've lied to them about anything, you can get into serious trouble, including possible denial of coverage for the accident. Obtain and review any police report filed, so you can point out who broke what traffic laws or who was at fault.
Keep Track of Your Medical Treatment
Note any doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, or other medical professionals that you receive treatment from, and each medical provider that referred you to other caregivers. Keep a detailed account of the treatments or medications you receive. Also, request copies of all medical reports and bills as these help you prove your medical expenses later.
Medical expenses are relatively easy to document, but pain and suffering is trickier to prove. Keep a record of how your injuries have impacted your daily life. Include any missed workdays, list any routine activities you can't undertake, and describe how the injuries have affected your family life.
Take Pictures
Take photographs of any damage to your vehicle as soon as possible after the accident. Photos helps your insurance adjuster determine how much you should be compensated for the damage to your car and can help in court. Pictures of your car before the accident can offer a great "compare and contrast" to show the true extent of the damage sustained in the accident.
Get a Property Damage Valuation
Obtain your insurance company's damage valuation. If you aren't satisfied with how your insurance company has valued your vehicle, don't give up. Get two independent repair estimates or replacement quotes. Assertively inform the adjuster of your concerns. If you can't agree on your car's value, consider mediation or consult an attorney.
Use Caution in Discussing the Incident
Don't talk to anyone about the accident other than your lawyer, your insurance company, and the police. Don't talk to a representative of another insurance company, without the knowledge of your attorney or insurer. If called by the other insurance company, be polite, but ask them to call your attorney or insurer to arrange an interview. Also, tell your lawyer or insurer about the call.
Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers
Be careful if you're offered a settlement from an insurance company. Confirm all your physical injuries have been treated. Some injuries don't show up or reach their greatest level of discomfort until many days, weeks, or months later. Don't settle a claim until you know you'll be compensated for all your injuries, and consult an attorney before signing any settlement documents.
Consider Hiring an Attorney
If anyone was injured in the accident, it's best to consult an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you maximize your recovery if you're injured or better defend yourself if you're at fault. Most accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. That means that your lawyer only receives a fee if you're awarded damages or receive a settlement. Contact an experienced attorney now for a free claim review.
- See more at: http://images.findlaw.com/optimost/accident-injury-law/after-a-car-accident-3.html#sthash.L997sDmY.dpuf
What should you do if you're in a car accident? When it happens, injuries may be severe and emotions high. However, there are important things to do at the scene of the accident and soon afterward. Below is a list of things to do after an accident, if possible. Keep this information handy by printing this helpful pamphlet on first steps after an auto accident and storing it in your car.
If you have been injured in a car accident, have an experienced injury attorney review your claim free of charge. If you have a valid claim, many attorneys will wait until you have settled your case to collect their fees.
Stay at the Scene
Never leave the accident scene until it's appropriate to do so. If you leave, particularly where someone has sustained injuries or was killed, you can face serious criminal penalties for being a hit-and-run driver.
Check on All Drivers and Passengers
Before assessing property damage, make sure everyone involved in the accident is okay. Get medical attention for anyone who needs it. If a person is unconscious or has neck or back pain, don't move them until qualified medical help arrives, unless a hazard requires moving the person.
Call the Police
If there's significant property damage, physical injury, or death, you need to call the police. Ask that a police report  be filed in situations where cops do arrive at the scene, and obtain the name and badge numbers of the responding officers.
Exchange Information
Get the names, numbers, addresses, drivers' license numbers, license plate numbers, and basic insurance information from all drivers involved. If there are passengers, also obtain their names, numbers, and addresses. In talking to other drivers, try to be cordial and cooperative.
However, you shouldn't apologize for anything at the scene. For example, if you say, "I'm so sorry I ran that red light! Is everyone okay?" you may be admitting legal liability for what happened. Immediately after an accident, it might not be clear who was at fault or more at fault. Moreover, in many states, fault isn't determinative of which insurer will pay for any loss. Therefore, try not to admit guilt unintentionally or unnecessarily.
Talk to Witnesses
Ask every witness what he or she saw. Get their names, numbers, or addresses, if possible. Ask locals if they've ever witnessed other accidents in the same place.
Inform Your Insurance Company
Promptly tell your insurance company you've been in an accident. Cooperate with them and tell them the truth about what happened and the extent of your injuries. Explain the facts clearly. If the insurance company finds out that you've lied to them about anything, you can get into serious trouble, including possible denial of coverage for the accident. Obtain and review any police report filed, so you can point out who broke what traffic laws or who was at fault.
Keep Track of Your Medical Treatment
Note any doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, or other medical professionals that you receive treatment from, and each medical provider that referred you to other caregivers. Keep a detailed account of the treatments or medications you receive. Also, request copies of all medical reports and bills as these help you prove your medical expenses later.
Medical expenses are relatively easy to document, but pain and suffering is trickier to prove. Keep a record of how your injuries have impacted your daily life. Include any missed workdays, list any routine activities you can't undertake, and describe how the injuries have affected your family life.
Take Pictures
Take photographs of any damage to your vehicle as soon as possible after the accident. Photos helps your insurance adjuster determine how much you should be compensated for the damage to your car and can help in court. Pictures of your car before the accident can offer a great "compare and contrast" to show the true extent of the damage sustained in the accident.
Get a Property Damage Valuation
Obtain your insurance company's damage valuation. If you aren't satisfied with how your insurance company has valued your vehicle, don't give up. Get two independent repair estimates or replacement quotes. Assertively inform the adjuster of your concerns. If you can't agree on your car's value, consider mediation or consult an attorney.
Use Caution in Discussing the Incident
Don't talk to anyone about the accident other than your lawyer, your insurance company, and the police. Don't talk to a representative of another insurance company, without the knowledge of your attorney or insurer. If called by the other insurance company, be polite, but ask them to call your attorney or insurer to arrange an interview. Also, tell your lawyer or insurer about the call.
Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers
Be careful if you're offered a settlement from an insurance company. Confirm all your physical injuries have been treated. Some injuries don't show up or reach their greatest level of discomfort until many days, weeks, or months later. Don't settle a claim until you know you'll be compensated for all your injuries, and consult an attorney before signing any settlement documents.
Consider Hiring an Attorney
If anyone was injured in the accident, it's best to consult an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you maximize your recovery if you're injured or better defend yourself if you're at fault. Most accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. That means that your lawyer only receives a fee if you're awarded damages or receive a settlement. Contact an experienced attorney now for a free claim review.
- See more at: http://images.findlaw.com/optimost/accident-injury-law/after-a-car-accident-3.html#sthash.L997sDmY.dpuf
What should you do if you're in a car accident? When it happens, injuries may be severe and emotions high. However, there are important things to do at the scene of the accident and soon afterward. Below is a list of things to do after an accident, if possible. Keep this information handy by printing this helpful pamphlet on first steps after an auto accident and storing it in your car.
If you have been injured in a car accident, have an experienced injury attorney review your claim free of charge. If you have a valid claim, many attorneys will wait until you have settled your case to collect their fees.
Stay at the Scene
Never leave the accident scene until it's appropriate to do so. If you leave, particularly where someone has sustained injuries or was killed, you can face serious criminal penalties for being a hit-and-run driver.
Check on All Drivers and Passengers
Before assessing property damage, make sure everyone involved in the accident is okay. Get medical attention for anyone who needs it. If a person is unconscious or has neck or back pain, don't move them until qualified medical help arrives, unless a hazard requires moving the person.
Call the Police
If there's significant property damage, physical injury, or death, you need to call the police. Ask that a police report  be filed in situations where cops do arrive at the scene, and obtain the name and badge numbers of the responding officers.
Exchange Information
Get the names, numbers, addresses, drivers' license numbers, license plate numbers, and basic insurance information from all drivers involved. If there are passengers, also obtain their names, numbers, and addresses. In talking to other drivers, try to be cordial and cooperative.
However, you shouldn't apologize for anything at the scene. For example, if you say, "I'm so sorry I ran that red light! Is everyone okay?" you may be admitting legal liability for what happened. Immediately after an accident, it might not be clear who was at fault or more at fault. Moreover, in many states, fault isn't determinative of which insurer will pay for any loss. Therefore, try not to admit guilt unintentionally or unnecessarily.
Talk to Witnesses
Ask every witness what he or she saw. Get their names, numbers, or addresses, if possible. Ask locals if they've ever witnessed other accidents in the same place.
Inform Your Insurance Company
Promptly tell your insurance company you've been in an accident. Cooperate with them and tell them the truth about what happened and the extent of your injuries. Explain the facts clearly. If the insurance company finds out that you've lied to them about anything, you can get into serious trouble, including possible denial of coverage for the accident. Obtain and review any police report filed, so you can point out who broke what traffic laws or who was at fault.
Keep Track of Your Medical Treatment
Note any doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, or other medical professionals that you receive treatment from, and each medical provider that referred you to other caregivers. Keep a detailed account of the treatments or medications you receive. Also, request copies of all medical reports and bills as these help you prove your medical expenses later.
Medical expenses are relatively easy to document, but pain and suffering is trickier to prove. Keep a record of how your injuries have impacted your daily life. Include any missed workdays, list any routine activities you can't undertake, and describe how the injuries have affected your family life.
Take Pictures
Take photographs of any damage to your vehicle as soon as possible after the accident. Photos helps your insurance adjuster determine how much you should be compensated for the damage to your car and can help in court. Pictures of your car before the accident can offer a great "compare and contrast" to show the true extent of the damage sustained in the accident.
Get a Property Damage Valuation
Obtain your insurance company's damage valuation. If you aren't satisfied with how your insurance company has valued your vehicle, don't give up. Get two independent repair estimates or replacement quotes. Assertively inform the adjuster of your concerns. If you can't agree on your car's value, consider mediation or consult an attorney.
Use Caution in Discussing the Incident
Don't talk to anyone about the accident other than your lawyer, your insurance company, and the police. Don't talk to a representative of another insurance company, without the knowledge of your attorney or insurer. If called by the other insurance company, be polite, but ask them to call your attorney or insurer to arrange an interview. Also, tell your lawyer or insurer about the call.
Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers
Be careful if you're offered a settlement from an insurance company. Confirm all your physical injuries have been treated. Some injuries don't show up or reach their greatest level of discomfort until many days, weeks, or months later. Don't settle a claim until you know you'll be compensated for all your injuries, and consult an attorney before signing any settlement documents.
Consider Hiring an Attorney
If anyone was injured in the accident, it's best to consult an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you maximize your recovery if you're injured or better defend yourself if you're at fault. Most accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. That means that your lawyer only receives a fee if you're awarded damages or receive a settlement. Contact an experienced attorney now for a free claim review.
- See more at: http://images.findlaw.com/optimost/accident-injury-law/after-a-car-accident-3.html#sthash.L997sDmY.dpuf

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