What to Do Following a Motor Vehicle Accident
By Dean I Weitzman, Esq. on November 23rd, 2009
Have you recently been in a motor vehicle accident? If so, then you are probably wondering “What now?”
Many people involved in car accidents or motorcycle crashes do not know what steps to take following a serious accident. They may fail to do something, or do the wrong things (like to talk to an insurance representative), which could compromise their case.
The law firm of Silvers, Langsam & Weitzman—better known as MyPhillyLawyer.com—provides some action steps to take following an auto crash. By following these steps, you will better ensure a successful personal injury claim.
1. Preserve Evidence/Take Pictures
Contact the police immediately after the accident. Officers will make certain the proper diagrams are obtained; measurements are taken; and witnesses’ names, addresses and testimonials are recorded. All these things may be useful as evidence in your personal injury claim.
2. Seek Emergency Medical Care
It is important to seek medical care soon after the accident, even if you believe you escaped serious injury. For example, a headache could be the symptom of a more serious brain injury. A seemingly minor back pain may get progressively worse. It is necessary for a doctor to examine you and record all evidence of injury. Without this medical evidence, the insurance company may refute your claim that the car accident, motorcycle crash or truck accident caused your injury.
3. Talk with an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
A personal injury attorney needs to be involved early on in the case in order to ensure the best chance of success. The law office of Silvers, Langsam & Weitzman is an experienced Philadelphia personal injury firm. The attorneys there know what to expect from insurance companies and how to put together an effective case that can lead to the compensation you are entitled to receive. When you hire MyPhillyLawyer, they will be assertive advocates of your rights.
4. Document Any Pain and Symptoms Following the Car Accident
Throughout the course of your personal injury claim, symptoms can worsen and new irregularities may appear. Make sure to document any changes in pain and symptoms. Visit a doctor regularly and have him or her extensively document your injury and its effects.
5. Save Any Notes, Receipts and Documents That Could Be Used as Evidence
Were you given a receipt for your pain medication? Do you have a record of gas used to get to and from the doctor’s office? Do you have a note from your primary care physician referring you to a specialist? All these notes, documents and receipts can be used as evidence in your car, motorcycle or truck accident claim. They can also be used to calculate the amount of compensation you deserve.
6. Do NOT Agree to a Preliminary Settlement from Your Insurance Company
Once an agreement is made with an insurance company, it can rarely be reversed. Chances are good that any agreement you make, without the representation of an attorney, will provide far less compensation than you need and deserve. Having an experienced lawyer on your side will significantly increase the chances of reaching a fair and reasonable settlement.
For more information on what to do and what not to do following a car, truck or motorcycle accident, contact the lawyers at MyPhillyLawyer.com.
Here, you can find a printable checklist of what to do following a motor vehicle accident.