Were you or a loved one seriously injured in an automotive crash and need to know what to do after a car accident? In this article, we will discuss what steps you should take if you wish to seek compensation. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation with our experienced Pittsburgh personal injury attorneys.
What to Do After a Car Accident | Don’t Speak with the Rival Insurance Company
After an accident, you might feel inclined to speak with your insurance company. You may hear from the insurance company of the at-fault driver. We recommend you speak with an experienced attorney before talking to any insurance companies. Insurance companies are most concerned with the bottom line. Their goal is to settle for as little as possible or avoid paying claims altogether. That’s why it’s important to seek a qualified Pittsburgh car accident lawyer. A lawyer will speak on your behalf.
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What to Do After a Car Accident | Collect Evidence
After an accident, you may be in shock, scared, and unsure of what to do. In the immediate aftermath, your primary focus should be your health and safety. If you’ve been in an auto accident, here are a few steps you should take:
- Call 911 – If you are able to, seek medical assistance immediately. Call 911. If you’re unable to, this will be the responsibility of witnesses or the other driver. If you are located in oncoming traffic, move to a safe location within close distance of the accident.
- Call Law Enforcement – If you’re uninjured and don’t see damage, you should still contact law enforcement. You may not feel your injuries right away because of shock, or you may notice damage to your vehicle after the fact. At the scene, investigators will take statements. Provide as much information as possible about your accident, but do not admit fault.
- Avoid Discussing Fault – Police may ask who caused the accident. You should not discuss fault with law enforcement, the other driver, anyone at the scene, or insurance adjusters. You might improperly implicate yourself. This can damage your case.
- Collect Evidence – At the scene, begin to collect evidence. Take photos and videos of the scene with your smartphone and write down witness names and phone numbers. Also ask for the insurance and contract information for the other driver.
- Seek Legal Counsel – If you’re able to, you can call a lawyer from the scene. A lawyer can help investigate your case immediately, and ensure your rights remain protected. If you’re unable to contact a lawyer from the scene, seek legal advice as soon as possible. Your case becomes more difficult to investigate the longer you wait.
The Pittsburgh car accident lawyers at Accident & Injury Law Group want to help. We know what you and your family are going through. Car accidents are frightening experiences, and in your time of need, the last thing you and your family need to worry about is fighting with insurance companies. Call us today for a free case evaluation.