What You Need to Do After a Car Accident
Whether minor or catastrophic, car accidents often involve some form of trauma, be it physical, emotional or both. People often feel nervous, confused and scared about what has happened and what will happen next. At Wagner Reese in Carmel, Indiana, we understand that many car accident victims cannot think clearly, and so we offer a few simple things to remember that can help you cope with the situation:
- Obtain the Names and Phone Numbers of All Participants and Witnesses: Sometimes witnesses are not listed on the police report, so obtaining this information can be critical to your claim.
- Photograph the Damage to Your Vehicle, Other Vehicles and Your Injuries: Use a cell phone camera or disposable camera to document the damage to all vehicles, the location the vehicles came to rest, any interior damage to your car and any visible injuries to your person.
- Seek Proper Medical Attention Immediately: Accurate diagnosis of your injuries and proper treatment according to doctor's orders is important in a car accident claim. Not all injuries are immediately obvious. Some concussions are actually brain injuries that can become worse over time, leading to further painful and expensive treatment.
- File a Police Report Detailing the Accident: Notify the police immediately if you are hit by another vehicle. State law also requires all parties involved in a motor vehicle accident to file a report promptly. You will also be required to file proof of insurance with the BMV, even if the accident is not your fault.
- Contact Wagner Reese: An insurance company's greatest ally is speed. They move quickly after a crash, documenting events in their favor and cleaning accident sites quickly. Adjustors contact victims soon after accidents to pressure people into accepting less than they deserve. Do not say or sign anything without seeking the advice of an experienced car accident attorney.
We will take care of all aspects of your case, conducting a proper investigation and handling any insurance, personal injury or wrongful death claims. Our goal is to protect your rights and help ensure that you receive the compensation you will need for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering and any other damages to which you may be entitled.
Contact us at Wagner Reese to discuss your personal injury claim.
