Taking the Right Steps After a Car Crash
The decisions you make immediately following a motor vehicle accident can impact how insurance companies handle your claim. Knowing what to do after an accident is mostly a matter of common sense. In general, the important things to remember are to get documentation and to stick to the facts.
I am attorney Richard Langerman, and I work with people throughout the Phoenix area who have suffered injuries and damages as a result of car accidents. I know from 25 years of experience that what people do immediately after the crash plays a significant role in how their claim plays out.
Know What to Do After an Accident
- Call the Police — Even if a car accident or truck accident is relatively minor, call the police. Having a credible first-hand assessment of the accident and any related injuries can be a valuable piece of evidence later, and can prevent anyone from changing their story.
- Gather Information —If you or a loved one needs immediate medical attention, make that your priority. However, gathering information from witnesses is important, if you need to pursue your rights later.
- Seek Medical Attention — Having an independent physician examine your injuries right after an accident creates a medical record that you can refer to later. Not only is treatment important to your health, it also creates a foundation for any future claim that you make.
- Get Your Own Estimate — It is to the insurance company's advantage to minimize the amount it pays out. Having your own independent estimate of damage can help you make a case if you suspect your insurance company is undercutting you.
- Make Sure You Are Being Treated Fairly —In cases where a car accident leads to a serious personal injury, you need to make sure your rights are protected and that you are being fully and properly compensated. If you suspect your insurance company is not dealing fairly with you, it may be time to consider working with a lawyer.
Schedule a Free Initial Consultation
To find out more about the next steps to pursuing full compensation following an injury related accident, call me at 602-240-5525 or contact my office online for a free initial consultation.
