Some days go off without a hitch. However, there are times when major issues develop. One of those days is the day you are in a vehicle accident. You are suddenly confronted with an out-of-the-ordinary circumstance. The great majority of us will be involved in a vehicle or motorbike accident at some time in our lives. When this happens, the actions you take immediately after a vehicle accident can have a substantial impact on the result of your personal injury lawsuit.
To make matters worse, you must deal with it after experiencing bodily and psychological pain. In this tense situation, three things must be kept in mind: safety, information, and proof. If you are involved in an automobile accident in Seattle, there are five key measures you may take to safeguard your rights and collect the most compensation.
Steps to take after a car accident in Seattle:
Be safe:
After being involved in an automobile accident, do not rush out of the vehicle or move rapidly. Take a careful inventory of your own and your passengers’ circumstances and physical states. Whatever you do next, try not to aggravate any existing injuries. When exiting the car, proceed with caution. You may still have to deal with traffic. Avoid crossing several lanes of traffic. If you or someone else is critically hurt, dial 911 immediately.
Gather information and exchange information:
Obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses at the scene of the accident if you are physically possible. Take photographs of the collision, car damage, traffic lights, and crossroads with your cell phone. Try not to move your car until the police come, so as to preserve evidence of the collision and to allow the authorities to determine who is “at responsibility.”
Have minimum conversation:
Car accident victims sometimes destroy themselves and their cases in seemingly innocuous ways. Even a simple “I’m sorry” might be used against you in court. Wait for the cops to come before engaging with the other party. Only talk to the cops about your accident, and never accept blame. Because you may not be the cause of the accident, it is advisable to avoid heaping blame on yourself at this time.
Have medical treatment:
Regardless of whether your injuries are major or minor, go to the emergency department if required or visit your regular care physician as soon as possible following an accident.
Inform insurance provider:
You can tell your insurance company of your accident once you have been medically cleared and have talked with the police. However, do not communicate with an insurance adjuster without first consulting with a Seattle personal injury attorney. Insurance adjusters frequently attempt to persuade wounded accident victims to accept blame in order to reduce their company’s liability—and, eventually, your payment.
Contact an attorney:
An experienced Seattle personal injury lawyer can deal with the insurance providers, allowing you to focus on your rehabilitation. Your attorney will be able to safeguard your rights and guarantee that you are reimbursed for your injuries and losses.
When you hire a vehicle accident lawyer, he will represent you in negotiations with your insurance company. Do not give your insurance company a statement unless you have an attorney on your side. If you make one false assertion, the insurance company may deny your claim. After an accident, the legal company understands how to safeguard your rights and maintain your personal injury insurance claim.
Documents of your personal injuries:
Following a vehicle accident, it is also crucial to take the following actions to preserve evidence that will be critical to your claim against your insurance company and the other driver:
- Photos of both vehicles, even if taken using a mobile phone.
- Photographs depicting noticeable injuries such as bruises, fractures, and back injuries
- Daily pain or injury notebook, such as a record rating your suffering and discussing how the pain or injuries impacted your daily life, social activities, job schedule, and connection with family members.
Final thoughts:
If you or someone you care about has been involved in a car accident, motorcycle accident, or any other type of motor vehicle accident in Seattle, Washington, contact or visit the website of a recognized expert who understands the state legal system and how to efficiently handle car crash cases.