What To Do After You’ve Been In An Accident
If you are hurt, whether in a car accident or you were hurt on someone else’s property, your mind will likely flood with questions. Will this keep me out of work? How much will it cost? Can I afford a doctor? Can I get compensation from the other party?
The following advice about what to do after an accident will help you protect your rights and preserve your options for seeking the compensation you deserve. Take a deep breath and remember:
- Report The Accident: After a car accident, call the police. The police will take written statements from the parties involved and any witnesses. This official record will be important in your lawyer’s investigation into the facts, and will make it harder for the defense to change their story.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you think your injuries are not that serious, seek medical attention as soon as possible. What you think may just be some aches and pains may keep you from being able to get out of bed in a few days or weeks. Whether it is from emergency workers on scene, at an ER or at your doctor’s office, get help and make sure to document all of the treatment you receive and follow the doctor’s recommendations. This will make it easier to link your injuries to the accident. If you wait too long to seek treatment, the defense will be able to argue that it was not the accident that caused your injuries.
- If You Can, Document Any Evidence: If you are able to, use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene. This includes skid marks, damage to any vehicles or safety hazards that caused you to slip and fall. Additionally, if there are any witnesses, ask for their names and contact information.
- Talk To A Personal Injury Attorney: If you are hurt because of someone else’s negligence, you should not try to seek compensation on your own. We can handle your interactions with insurance companies, talk to witnesses, work with experts to perform an in-depth investigation into your accident, and find ways for you to afford medical care.
Call Our Experienced Team Day Or Night
At Whitestone Young, PC, in Fairfax, Virginia, our team of proven trial lawyers can protect your rights and evaluate your options for seeking maximum compensation for your injuries.
If you want to learn more, schedule a free consultation at our office by sending us an email or calling us 24/7 at 703-591-0200.
