If you’ve ever been in a car accident, you know it can be very scary! When it comes to dealing with insurance companies, you may be giving away rights you didn’t know you had. Here are 8 things you should do immediately after a car accident.
Medical emergency treatment: If you have not already seen a doctor, you should do so immediately if you experience pain or physical difficulties. Make sure you give the doctor, hospital, or medical facility your auto insurance card so they can properly bill your PIP (Personal Injury Protection Benefits) policy.
photographs: If possible, take photos of the scene of the accident and the damage to the cars. Have these images saved or developed immediately. This is particularly important in the event of accidents where fault may be involved.
witnesses: Get the names, addresses and phone numbers of car accident witnesses. This cannot be stressed enough! Also, you should not discuss the facts of the accident with the witness except to get their contact information. You don’t want to appear as if you had an undue influence on their version of what they saw.
Doctor’s note: If work causes difficulty, significant discomfort or pain, you should ask your treating physician for a temporary work restriction. If your doctor has told you that the choice to work is yours, then you should not work if the work causes you pain or significant discomfort.
Declarations to insurance companies: Do not discuss the case with anyone or give any statements until you have spoken to an attorney. You should be aware that you may be required to make a declaration to your own insurance company as required by your policy. So don’t wait until you call a licensed attorney in your state. If you have been contacted by an insurance company, it is extremely important that you get the name, mailing address, telephone and fax number of the adjuster who will be handling your claim. Then tell the expert that you will consult a lawyer and that lawyer will get in touch with the expert.
Damage report: If your car was damaged in the accident, have the car inspected by a reputable body shop as soon as possible after photos of the damage are taken.
Documents: Gather all the documents related to your case such as medical bills, doctor’s orders, prescriptions, receipts, and accident reports.
main task: Your main job is to make yourself comfortable and recover from your injuries. Let your lawyer take care of the legal details of your case. Your physical recovery is the most important thing.