What to Do After a Car Accident to Protect Your Personal Injury Claim
A car accident can be overwhelming, especially when it involves injuries, vehicle damage, or other significant losses. The moments immediately following an accident are critical, as the steps taken can significantly impact the outcome of any personal injury claim.
Your actions are vital in protecting your rights and securing compensation, from guaranteeing proper medical care to collecting evidence for a potential lawsuit..
At Friedrich Law Office, P.C., we understand the stress and confusion that follow a car accident. Our firm helps clients pursue personal injury claims following a car accident. By taking proper steps, we can help make sure that you have the strongest case possible. Call our office today to take the first step toward justice and compensation.
The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention
The first and most important step after a car accident is seeking medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. By seeking prompt medical care, you make sure that any injuries are documented, which is essential for your personal injury claim.
Additionally, visiting a healthcare provider allows for proper treatment, which may prevent the injury from worsening. Even if you don’t believe you’ve sustained serious harm, it’s still a good idea to get checked out. Failure to seek medical treatment right away can be used against you later when proving the extent of your injuries in your claim.
Documenting the Accident
After seeking medical care, it’s important to document as much as possible about the accident. The more information you have, the stronger your claim will be. Here are some things you should focus on:
Collecting witness information: If there are any witnesses to the accident, get their names and contact details. Their statements could help corroborate your version of the event.
Taking photographs: If it’s safe, take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and anything that may have contributed to the accident (like road conditions or traffic signals).
Recording the other driver’s information: Get the name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, license plate number, insurance information, and make/model of the other vehicle involved in the accident.
Police report: If the police responded to the scene, get a copy of the police report. This document will serve as an official record of the accident and may include important details regarding liability.
Accurate and thorough documentation will provide strong support for your personal injury claim and help you receive fair compensation.
Avoid Admitting Fault
It’s easy to be emotional after an accident, but it’s important to avoid admitting fault, even if you feel responsible. In the heat of the moment, it’s common to say things like, "I’m sorry," or "It was my fault," but those words can be used against you in the claims process.
The best course of action is to avoid discussing fault and to let the authorities and insurance companies determine responsibility. Simply exchange information with the other party and wait for the investigation to proceed. If you're unsure about what to say, it’s always better to keep quiet until you've had a chance to speak with your attorney.
Contacting Your Insurance Company
After a car accident, it’s essential to report the incident to your insurance company. Be truthful and provide the necessary details, but avoid over-sharing or speculating on the cause of the accident. Remember, your statements may be used by the insurance company when determining fault and settlement offers.
When speaking with your insurance adjuster, be clear about the extent of your injuries and the damage to your vehicle. Also, make sure to ask about the process for filing a claim and what documentation is needed. This way, you'll be prepared and informed throughout the claims process.
Speaking With an Attorney
One of the most important steps in protecting your personal injury claim is consulting with an experienced attorney. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights, guide you through the claims process, and represent you in negotiations or court.
An attorney can also help protect you from insurance companies that may try to offer you a low settlement or deny your claim altogether. With an attorney’s assistance, you can avoid costly mistakes and make sure that your case is handled effectively.
A lawyer will also help you gather and preserve evidence, interact with insurance companies on your behalf, and make sure you meet all legal deadlines. Don’t wait too long to consult with an attorney—evidence and witness memories can fade over time, and there are strict time limits for filing claims.
Managing Your Medical Records
Medical records are a significant part of your personal injury claim. It’s essential to maintain a detailed record of all medical treatments related to your injuries, including doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, and any medications prescribed. This documentation will help prove the extent of your injuries and the medical costs you’ve incurred.
In addition to keeping your own records, make sure that your lawyer receives copies of all relevant medical documents. Your attorney will use this information to assess the value of your claim and to fight for fair compensation on your behalf.
Avoiding Social Media
Today, many people instinctively turn to social media to share their experiences. However, after a car accident, it’s best to avoid posting anything on social media. Insurance adjusters, opposing attorneys, and even your own insurance company may monitor your accounts to find evidence that contradicts your claim.
Anything you post—whether it’s a photo, comment, or status update—could be used against you. For example, if you post an image of you participating in an activity that could be seen as inconsistent with your injuries, it may damage your credibility and reduce the amount of compensation you receive.
It’s wise to refrain from sharing details of the accident or your injury recovery process on social media until your case is resolved.
Keeping Track of Your Losses
In addition to your medical records, it’s essential to keep track of any other losses related to the accident. These can include:
Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, document the time you miss from work and the income you lose.
Transportation costs: If you need to rent a vehicle or use public transportation because your car was damaged, keep receipts for those expenses.
Pain and suffering: Pain and suffering, though harder to quantify, are key components of personal injury claims. Your attorney will evaluate fair compensation for the physical and emotional impact of the accident.
By keeping detailed records of all financial losses, you help your lawyer build a stronger case for the compensation you need.
Contact Us Today
After a car accident in Kansas or Missouri, every step you take can influence the outcome of your personal injury claim. By seeking medical attention, documenting the scene, avoiding admissions of fault, and consulting with an experienced attorney, you can make sure that your rights are protected.
At Friedrich Law Office, P.C., we’re committed to helping clients work through the aftermath of a car accident and secure fair compensation for their injuries. With offices in Raymore, Harrisonville, and Butler, Missouri, we proudly serve clients throughout the area. Reach out to us today for skilled guidance on how to protect your personal injury claim.