3 Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Serious car accidents are traumatizing experiences. Whether you’re a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, the stress of a collision (especially one that causes serious injury) can make it overwhelming to decide what to do next.

James H. Brown and Associates understands and are here to help. With over 200 years of combined injury law experience, we take pride in protecting our clients’ rights and supporting them through every step of seeking compensation and attaining justice. Read on to learn more about the steps you should take after a serious car accident, as well as how James H. Brown and Associates can help you attain justice for you and your family.

1. Seek Medical Attention

Your health is more important than anything. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, it is absolutely critical to get medical treatment for your injuries.

Even if your injuries appear relatively “minor,” it is still wise to see your family doctor or other healthcare providers as quickly as possible. There are several reasons for this: First and foremost, even if you are not in severe pain, you may still have suffered a serious injury that requires immediate medical treatment or will worsen over time. Second, insurance companies have often claimed that if an individual didn’t take an ambulance or immediately seek treatment, their injuries couldn’t be that severe, or even completely made-up. Don’t give them the opportunity to make this argument when you pursue compensation.

While receiving medical attention, be sure to describe your injuries in as much detail as possible. Your medical provider will be documenting your injuries in their records, which will be used later to evaluate your injury claims. No detail is too minor to leave out; even a seemingly minor injury can worsen over time. The more documentation available on the injury, the easier it will be to prove the accident caused it.

Finally, make sure you receive any relevant diagnostic tests during your treatment. X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and other tests will allow your doctor to diagnose and document your injuries thoroughly. Again, the sooner your injuries are diagnosed, the easier it is to prove they were caused by the accident.

2. Document Everything

Just as your healthcare provider will document your physical injuries, you should also note any other damages you may have incurred due to the accident.

What qualifies as “damages?” It can be anything from the damage to your vehicle, lost days of work, out-of-pocket expenses, and more. Serious accidents can take a long time to be resolved; instead of relying on memory, be sure to save receipts and keep a journal, including any changes or expenses resulting from the accident. Again, no detail is too minor; the more information you have, the stronger your case will be, and the more likely you are to receive the compensation you deserve.

3. Speak With an Experienced Injury Lawyer (First!)

As soon as an insurance company finds out you were in an accident, their agents will likely try to contact you and obtain a statement. While you can notify insurance companies that an accident has occurred, never give an insurance company (even your own) a statement without speaking with an injury lawyer first. When you seek compensation for your injuries later, the company will look for information in your statement they can use against you.

Instead, contact an injury lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. Whereas an insurance company has an obligation to its shareholders to make a profit (and pay out as little as possible), an injury lawyer has a responsibility to you and your family to give the best advice possible. Coming to a team of experienced attorneys with a well-documented case is the best way to ensure you receive justice and the compensation you deserve after your accident.

James H. Brown and Associates: YOUR Car Accident Injury Lawyers

James H. Brown and Associates has over 200 years’ combined personal injury law experience, including advocating for victims of car accidents. Our team of experienced injury lawyers know firsthand what it’s like to be seriously injured in a car accident, are ready to fight for the compensation you and your family deserve.

No two accidents are the same; that’s why we offer a complete range of services for our clients, including:

• An experienced team of injury lawyers with a proven record of success.
• Investigation and evidence preservation services, including accident reconstruction.
• Strong relationships with organizations ready to assist with rehabilitation and recovery.
• And much more!

Have You or a Loved One Been Injured in a Car Accident?

Contact us today to book a free, no-obligation consultation with James H. Brown and Associates’ injury lawyers.