Getting into a car accident is a serious matter, no matter how minimal you initially think the damage to your vehicle is. Many auto accident victims sustain recurring injuries that require periodic medical attention for the rest of their lives. How you react immediately after being in a car accident can either help you to make a successful legal claim against the responsible parties, or it can make the situation measurably more difficult.
Don’t Get Agitated
When you are involved in an auto accident you will undoubtedly be inconvenienced, and in some cases, highly irritated. Some accidents are avoidable in theory, but when the other driver is not paying attention or lacks practical experience, all you can do is brace yourself for impact. If you are involved in a car accident, don’t panic. Immediately exiting your car to survey the damage done may not be advisable, even if you don’t feel any physical pain. Remember that auto accidents come with shock and trauma, and injuries frequently go undetected at first.
Remaining calm after an auto accident is the very best thing that you can do. Collect all of your documentation, check on any passengers that may be in your car and call 911. The responding police unit can check on the safety of the other party involved in the auto wreck. If you need medical assistance, ask for it, and prepare yourself to make an insurance claim as soon as possible.
Don’t Sign Any Legally Binding Agreements with the Auto Insurance Company
Most people dealing with the aftermath of an auto accident simply want to have the situation fully resolved as soon as they can. No one wants to wait months for an insurance payout when they have auto repair bills to satisfy and medical invoices piling up. If the other driver’s insurance company offers you a settlement that requires you to waive your right to seek legal recourse, do not accept the offer. By offering settlements, insurance companies hope that car accident victims won’t file lawsuits because they are expensive to defend. Instead, read over the documents presented and give a copy of them to your car accident lawyer for review.
Don’t Go Without Legal Advice
After a car wreck, few people are in a position to pay for extensive lawyer services and retainer fees. Fortunately, car accident attorneys often consult with potential future clients at reduced or even free rates. You should check around with various lawyers until you are able to locate a reputable firm that doesn’t require a fee for the initial consultation. During your meeting, you will have the ability to ask as many detailed questions as you can within the given time frame. This will allow you to figure out if it is a good idea to settle your auto accident case out of court, if you feel that you are due additional money for damages.
Reacting poorly or failing to take the right actions after an auto accident can hurt your case in the end. Do everything that you can to remain calm, and behave responsibly while speaking to the police and the other driver. You may not agree with the decisions made by the other driver, the insurance companies or the authorities, but with the help of an attorney, things can easily begin to go in your favor.