What To Do When You Have Been in a Car or Truck Accident

One of the most startling things that can occur is that of a car accident. The moments after an accident can leave you flustered with no idea of what to do or exactly what happened. The most important thing is that you are alive but if you are hurt it is wise to not move. There are some spinal injuries that can end in paralysis if a person is moved suddenly with spinal cord fracture. Knowing what to do before an accident occurs is the best course of action. You will be able to refer to what you have researched or you can keep a card with a checklist in case of an accident laminated in your car.

Call The Police No Matter What

There are going to be people who are involved in an accident who will beg and plead to not call the police. This could be because they do not have insurance or they might not even have a valid driver’s license. Call the police immediately to report the accident before you have had any contact with the other driver. Do not give them the chance to convince you otherwise as this usually is not because they have your best interests in mind. The police will write a report that will be the official report of what happened so make sure you describe what happened exactly. Take pictures before the cars are moved as some people will try to change their story once the police show up.

Get Legal Advice

There is a large component of a personal injury lawsuit that is getting the appropriate paperwork filled out properly. Talking to a personal injury lawyer is important as they will tell you whether or not you have a case. Talk to the lawyer nearly immediately as there are time limits for certain accidents. The lawyers at Schrueders Lawyers have experience in dealing with the courts system. Good lawyers will allow you to get the settlement that you deserve. Do not hire a lawyer without trial experience as they settle every case. You need a lawyer willing to fight during a trial rather than settle without you getting what you rightfully deserve.

Call Your Insurance Company

Waiting a day to call your insurance company and file a claim is important. You do not need to call them regardless of what they say on the day of the accident. Call the next day while you are calm and answer questions related to the copy of the accident report you were given. Do not give any extraneous details as the insurance agent might be looking for you to say you were driving distracted. Only tell them what is in the accident report and leave those other details for your legal representation.

This is just the beginning when it comes to what you should do after you have been involved in an accident. Take time to do research to find out other tips which will help keep you safe as well as help you with a lawsuit if you decide to take that route.

Tommy Wyher is a Tampa native who works in various startups.