What to Do After a Car Accident Injury?

Getting the Help You Need After a Car Accident

Experiencing a car accident is undeniably traumatic, and what you do in the subsequent hours, days, and weeks can significantly impact both your physical recovery and your ability to receive just compensation. In the bustling streets of Philadelphia, being prepared with a comprehensive action plan is essential. Below, we take a look at the steps you should take after a car accident.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Philadelphia

After a car accident, it's crucial to take specific steps to ensure your health and protect your legal rights. Here's a checklist that combines both medical check-ups and legal consultations:

Immediate Steps Post-Accident

• Safety First: Ensure the safety of yourself and others by moving to a safe location, if possible.
• Call 911: If there are injuries or significant damage, call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance and police presence.
• Exchange Information: Share your insurance and contact details with the other drivers involved. Make sure you include phone numbers, addresses, names, and insurance information.

Medical Action Plan

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don't believe you are seriously injured, get a medical evaluation. Some injuries may not manifest immediately.
• Follow Medical Advice: If you receive medical treatment, follow the doctor's advice and keep records of all medical appointments, diagnoses, and treatment plans.
• Document Injuries: Take photos of any visible injuries you or other parties may have sustained.
• Keep Medical Records: Maintain a file of all medical records and bills related to your treatment.

Legal Steps and Consultation

• Contact Law Enforcement: Ensure a police report is filed, as this is important for insurance claims and potential legal actions.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance provider as soon as you can after the accident. Make sure to provide them with all relevant information.
• Consult an Attorney: If the accident is severe, involves injuries, or has complex liability issues, consider consulting a personal injury attorney. They can guide you on legal matters.
• Preserve Evidence: Collect evidence from the scene, including photographs, witness statements, and any relevant documentation, such as the police report.
• Document Expenses: Keep a record of all accident-related expenses, including medical bills, repair costs, and any other losses incurred due to the accident.
• Notify the Other Driver's Insurance: If the accident was the other party's fault, notify their insurance company and provide them with the necessary information.
• Be Cautious with Statements: Avoid making detailed statements about the accident to anyone other than your attorney and law enforcement. Do not admit fault.
• Know Your State Laws: Familiarize yourself with the laws in your state regarding time limits for filing insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits.
• File a Claim: If appropriate, file a claim with your or the other party's insurance company. Your attorney can assist with this process.
• Keep Communication Records: Maintain records of all communications with insurance companies and other involved parties.
• Follow Legal Advice: Listen to your attorney's guidance and act accordingly regarding any potential legal action.

Remember that the steps you need to take after a car accident can vary depending on the severity of the incident and the laws in your jurisdiction. Consulting with a legal professional can provide you with personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.

Getting the Right Guidance

A car accident attorney can play a crucial role in guiding you through the aftermath of your accident, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Here's how we can assist you:

• Legal Expertise: Car accident attorneys are well-versed in the relevant laws and regulations pertaining to accidents and personal injury claims. They can provide you with expert advice on how to navigate the legal process.
• Assessment of Your Case: Your attorney will evaluate the circumstances surrounding the accident, including the evidence, police reports, and witness statements, to determine the strength of your case and potential liability.
• Insurance Claim Guidance: They can help you understand your insurance policy, determine the coverage available, and assist you in filing claims with your own insurance company, as well as the other party's insurer, if applicable.
• Negotiations: Car accident attorneys are skilled negotiators. They can handle communications with the insurance companies, advocating on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
• Evidence Gathering: Your attorney will help gather and preserve evidence relevant to your case. This may include photographs, accident reports, medical records, and witness statements.
• Medical Treatment Coordination: They can assist in coordinating your medical treatment, ensuring you receive appropriate care and that your medical bills are documented for the claim.
• Determining Damages: Attorneys can help calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses, to ensure you seek fair compensation.
• Filing a Lawsuit: If negotiations with the insurance company do not result in a fair settlement, your attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf. They will guide you through the legal process, from the initial complaint to court proceedings.
• Court Representation: In the event your case goes to court, your attorney will represent you during litigation, presenting your case, cross-examining witnesses, and arguing on your behalf.
• Settlement Negotiations: If a lawsuit is filed, your attorney will continue negotiations with the other party's legal representation to reach a settlement before the trial.
• Legal Compliance: They will ensure that you meet all legal deadlines, complete necessary paperwork, and adhere to relevant legal procedures, reducing the risk of errors that could harm your case.
• Advice on Accepting Offers: Your attorney will provide you with guidance on whether a settlement offer is fair and in your best interests, helping you make informed decisions.
• Emotional Support: Going through an accident and its aftermath can be emotionally challenging. Your attorney can offer support and reassurance during the process.

Talk to an Experienced Attorney

Having an experienced attorney by your side can significantly improve your chances of obtaining a fair settlement and navigating the complex legal and insurance processes effectively. The experienced car accident attorneys at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim will ensure that you are not taken advantage of by insurance companies and help you focus on your recovery while they handle the legal aspects of your case. Contact us now to schedule a consultation.