One of the most common reasons for personal injury lawsuits in the United States is car accidents. This is likely because car accident injuries can be very serious, and car accidents usually involve some level of property damage. Compensatory damages in personal injury cases usually cover things like pain and suffering, lost wages, loss of ability to work, loss of consortium, and property damage. Here are a few things you need to do after a car accident to increase the likelihood of getting the right amount of compensation.
1. Call the Police
The first thing you should do after a car accident is call the police to report it. In many states, it is illegal not to, and having official reports is going to help your case in court and with the insurance companies. The police will also be able to make the roadway safer for you and other vehicles in the area of the accident by turning on their lights and so on.
2. Document the Accident
The second thing you need to do to help your case is document everything about the accident that you can. Make sure you take pictures of the cars, the roadways, and any damage. Make sure to document yourself as well. Take pictures of your car accident injuries and make sure that medical personnel document them as well. These can all be used in court to help you win your case.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
After calling the police and starting to document evidence of the accident, you also need to call your insurance company to report the accident. Make sure that you have the contact and insurance information of anyone else who was involved in the accident and make sure that you give them as many details as possible about the accident.
Have you ever been a car accident before? Feel free to share your experience with us in the comments section. More on this topic.
