Personal Injury Lawyer
Auto collisions can be stressful, scary, and can result in substantial damages and losses. The person who was innocent in the entire scenario, may be the one who ends up suffering the very worst of injuries and financial hardships. The fact is, not every driver on the road is responsible. If an accident were to arise, it is important to know how to deal with the scene, such as collecting evidence, getting medical attention, and talking your insurance company afterwards.
Q: What if the other driver doesn’t want me to call the police?
A: If the driver is pleading with you to not call the police, it is likely because he or she is hiding something. The other driver may not have insurance or is worried about the consequences of causing an auto accident. It is vital to protect your interests by calling the police no matter what the other driver is saying to you.
An officer can take a report of what happened, which can be used in your insurance claim and civil lawsuit against the driver (if you decide to pursue legal action at a later time). In many cases, the officer’s report is strictly factual, so it is a reliable source of evidence to support your side of the story.
Q: How soon should I get medical attention for my injuries?
A: If you feel disorientation or aches anywhere on your body, it is recommended that you call for an ambulance at the scene. If you must wait, consider getting an exam by your doctor that same day. It is possible that you sustained serious injuries, but just don’t feel them yet. By getting medical attention early, you can catch injuries before they have time to worsen.
Q: What photographs are the most important?
A: Before vacating the scene of the accident, take photographs of vehicle damage, injuries, debri on the ground, broken window shields, street signs, witnesses, and any other factors. These photographs can be used by your insurance company and attorney to show how the other driver was at-fault for the accident. Without photographic evidence, it just may be your word against theirs.
Q: What if I get a call from an insurance adjuster?
A: In the days or weeks following an accident, you may receive calls from an insurance adjuster. This person is responsible for evaluating your accident claim and determining how much it is worth. Unless you feel completely confident talking with this representative, you may want to forward these conversations to your attorney, like a personal injury lawyer in Trenton, NJ. An insurance adjuster may pick apart what you say and misinterpret things as a way to get your claim denied or greatly reduced.
Q: Can I handle this on my own or do I need an attorney?
A: Not every victim in a car accident hires an attorney for assistance. However, the vast majority of people can benefit from legal help. The average person may not understand how the process works, which leaves them vulnerable to not getting what they deserve. It can be difficult to deal with an auto accident alone, so many drivers get insight from a reputable attorney in the days to follow.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Davis & Brusca, LLC for their insight into personal injury.
