What To Do After An Accident
Nobody leaves their garage expecting to get into a car or motor vehicle accident. Unfortunately, it isn’t something you can plan for. Many accident victims find themselves at a loss for what to do after an accident. As detailed below, you can take some easy and basic post-car accident steps to protect yourself and preserve your legal rights.
Gather The Other Driver’s Identifying Information
At minimum, this should include his or her license plate, name, driver’s license number, address, phone number and insurance information. If you forgot to collect this information — or you were a victim of a hit-and-run accident — I can still help you pursue your options for getting coverage.
Get Medical Treatment
You should always go to the emergency room as soon as possible after an accident to get checked out. Even if you feel all right initially, you still may have injuries that are not immediately apparent. Certain types of injuries — including common neck and back injuries — can produce symptoms as a delayed reaction. In addition to detecting these problems and providing treatment, a medical visit can also provide valuable documentation of your injuries.
Note that many urgent care facilities and primary care clinics do not treat motor vehicle accidents. Instead, they will often refer you to the nearest emergency room.
Do NOT Agree To Provide A Recorded Statement To An Insurance Adjuster
The insurance company will try to pigeonhole you into a less favorable position at the outset, particularly if you do not have an attorney present. In fact, insurance adjusters will often ask a very different set of questions — and use a different set of tactics — when an accident victim does not have an attorney.
The insurance adjuster is looking out for the insurance company’s interests. Make sure you know your rights and have a dedicated advocate who will place your interests firsts.
Do NOT Get Pressured Into A Settlement By The Insurance Company
Your insurance company will likely try to settle the claim as soon as possible. You may get pressured to accept a settlement. In fact, early settlement offers will often drastically underestimate the value of your claim (even while the company tries to convince you that you are getting a great deal). Your best bet is to speak with a knowledgeable attorney about your situation before you sign your rights away.
Consult With An Attorney | Contact The Boar For A Free Consultation
If you or a loved one was involved in a car accident, contact me, personal injury lawyer . I can walk you through your rights and provide experienced, dedicated advocacy. Call The Law Office of Carl Knickerbocker, P.C., at 512-943-7551 or contact me online. Based in Georgetown, Texas, I handle personal injury cases throughout Williamson County.