It was a sunny day, but the rush of headlights and horns was anything but peaceful. Suddenly, out of the corner of your eye, you spot it: a car accident.
You drive past, feeling relieved it wasn’t you. But what do you do if it is you someday?
With advice from this legal guide, you can be prepared in case of a car accident. The guide outlines and breaks down all the necessary follow up tasks after a car accident so that you can stay on top of your recovery process.
Put Safety and Medical Care First
Safety and medical care must be the number one priority following a car accident. Victims should seek medical attention as soon as possible and remain at the scene until they can receive appropriate assistance.
Even in minor accidents, it is important to have a medical professional check for any potential issues. After assessing the situation, the injured parties should always follow up with their local health provider. If necessary, they must schedule future appointments.
Talk With Law Enforcement
One of the first and most important tasks to do is to talk to law enforcement. In cases like hit-and-run or when the accident results in bodily injury, it is critical to call the police.
Before discussing the accident with other parties involved, talk to the police and provide them with any information that can help with their investigation process.
Give them an honest and precise account of the events leading up to and during the accident. Stay calm and brief when answering questions, as many insurance companies will review the police report when dealing with claims. Following up with other parties is best done after the police have done their part.
Exchange Information With Involved Parties
After a car accident, the involved parties should exchange information. This includes gathering the other driver’s details, such as:
- contact details
- insurance details
- vehicle details (including make, model, year, and license plate)
- description of the events surrounding the accident
It is also helpful to keep a copy of all the paperwork and documents associated with the accident for legal reference.
Document the Accident Scene
Documenting the accident scene plays an essential role in any legal proceeding following a car accident. After the accident, those involved should attempt to memorialize the scene as closely as possible. This includes taking pictures of the cars, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries of the people involved.
Witness statements must also be collected and documented. Any police reports should be copied and kept in a safe place.
It is important to gather as much information as possible to understand the specifics of the accident best as they arise in legal proceedings.
Documenting the accident scene is crucial to preparing for any legal action that may follow.
Notify Your Insurance Provider
It is important to promptly notify your insurance provider that you have been involved in a car accident. Depending on your policy details, you may need to submit an accident report to your agent or insurer as soon as possible. These reports typically include details such as:
- the location of the accident
- the date/time
- the drivers involved
- vehicle details and other relevant information
You may also need to fill out additional car accident claim forms. Be sure to keep copies of all paperwork for your records if any dispute arises about the accident. It is also essential to check what other requirements may be specific to your policy and always read the full contract before making any decision.
Get a Property Damage Valuation
A property damage valuation is a legal procedure following a car accident to assess and assign a dollar value to the damages from the accident. The valuation determines the cost of repairs and who is responsible for the expenses.
The assessment should be performed by a qualified and impartial appraiser. The appraisal will usually take into account such things as:
- model and year of the car
- estimated cost of repairs
- any tax or title information
- current market value of the car
The appraiser will review the vehicle damage and provide a report with the cost of repairs and a suggested value for the car. The property damage valuation can help both parties find a fair resolution to the damage caused by the accident.
It should also be noted that if the vehicle’s value exceeds the estimated repair costs, a settlement agreement may be reached outside of court, resolving the dispute more quickly and cost-effectively for everyone involved.
Get an Attorney
After a car accident, the most important next step is hiring a lawyer. An attorney can help the injured parties receive the compensation they may be entitled to and handle any additional legal and insurance-related paperwork.
An experienced attorney, such as this Pensacola personal injury lawyer, will also have a network of medical professionals who can help assess and document the physical, mental, and emotional damages of the accident. Additionally, an attorney can help ensure that the rights of the injured parties are protected and that proper legal steps are taken in case of a liability dispute.
In the end, consulting an experienced litigator is the best way to ensure that car accident victims are compensated for their losses.
What to Look For in An Attorney
Look for an attorney with experience with car accidents and can advise on the best course of action. Researching potential attorneys to determine their expertise and success rate is also essential.
In some cases, an attorney can negotiate with an insurance company on how to handle a settlement. The attorney should know the state’s car accident laws and how to navigate the legal process effectively. It is essential to look for an attorney who is also a skilled negotiator.
An attorney should be skilled in communication and document preparation. This includes understanding specific forms that must be filled out and filed during the claims process.
An attorney should also know the medical and legal jargon surrounding auto accidents. Finally, look for an attorney with an upstanding reputation who is proven successful in dealing with car accident cases.
Learn About the Important Follow up Tasks After a Car Accident
The follow up tasks after a car accident can be complex, so be sure to consult an accident lawyer or other legal professional to handle all the details. Keeping a legal guide on hand for future reference can ensure you get the help you need throughout the process. Don’t wait to get help-contact a lawyer today!
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