Next Steps After an Accident
When a car accident occurs, it is easy to become disoriented, shaken, and confused. While this happens to most everyone involved, in the aftermath of an accident, it is vital to obtain crucial information. On top of that, there are specific things you can do following an accident — as well as some things you should not do — that will help to improve your chances of recovering maximum compensation for your injuries.
Unfortunately, being in a car accident is a far too common occurrence. Luckily, if you have been injured in an accident, our attorney at Landry Law, P.C. can provide highly personalized care and seek to guide you with legal advice. Our team at Landry Law, P.C. possesses the experience and knowledge you need in dealing with car accident claims. Our team proudly serves clients throughout Denver, Castle Pines, Castle Rock, and Douglas County, Colorado, from the Lone Tree and Trinidad locations.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
Get to Safety and Seek Medical Care
This is an obvious step, as there will likely be injuries involved in a car accident. Even if they are not readily apparent, it is advisable to seek emergency medical services that will likely be on site. The reasons for this are vital for your potential claim:
For your own safety and well-being, see a doctor directly following a car accident. Timely care and treatment can prevent long-term pain and injuries.
Medical records will be crucial when filing the insurance claim after the accident. The records will show the extent of the injuries caused by the other driver, which could help you.
Not seeking medical care will be used as ammunition by the insurance company, especially in cases where there is a claim against the other driver.
Call the Police
Depending on where the accident occurs, especially in a crowded area, you may not even have to worry about calling the police. Still, reporting the accident to the police is essential — and even legally required in some states.
Gather Information
Once injuries are checked and the police have been apprised of the accident, make sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Keep it simple, and get the following information:
Full name and contact information
Insurance company and policy number
Driver's license and license plate number
Type, color, and model of vehicle
Location of accident
Make an Insurance Claim
The next step will be calling your insurance company to report the accident. Let your insurance company know about the accident so they can start building a claim for you. However, if an insurance adjuster calls, you must prevent giving away as much information as possible. Instead, an experienced attorney can handle the situation and will be able to review your options with you.
Hire an Attorney
After you have reported your accident to the insurance company, your next call needs to be to the qualified car accident attorney at Landry Law, P.C. No matter the seriousness of the accident, you never know what repercussions will result from the accident.
Potential Issues in a Car Accident Claim
Every car accident is different. Still, there are several common potential pitfalls to watch out for when pursuing a claim, including:
Statute of Limitations - Like most states, Colorado has a statute of limitations that places limits on the time during which an individual can file a lawsuit after an accident.
Uninsured Driver - If the driver responsible for the accident is uninsured, you could be on the hook for all of the bills and various costs without any compensation from their insurer. If the cost is substantial, taking legal action may be necessary. If your own insurance policy includes an uninsured driver rider, it can help mitigate much of the cost.
Early Settlement - Insurance carriers want one thing, generally, and it is a quick settlement. If they settle and you sign the settlement, you cannot ask for more compensation.
Unexpected Costs - Expenses that come along with an accident can reach beyond basic injuries and repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
Rely on the Experience of Landry Law, P.C.
If you have been involved in a car accident and need assistance, contact Landry Law, P.C., today, and our team will fight for you during this difficult time. They will review the details of your accident and help you determine what steps to take next. Visit our website for more information, or call us if you have been involved in an accident in the Lone Tree, Trinidad, Denver, Castle Pines, Castle Rock, or Douglas County, Colorado.