Car accidents are stressful and can disorient you, perhaps even more so when you are not at fault and did not see the crash coming. Knowing what to do after a car accident that is not your fault can help ensure your safety, protect your rights, and secure the compensation you deserve.
The Ferrell Law Firm, PLLC, specializes in handling car accident cases and is dedicated to guiding clients through the complexities of the legal system. With our experienced car accident lawyers in Boulder, you can be confident that your case will be handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
What do you do after a car accident? Today, we will present a step-by-step guide on the most advantageous actions you should take after a crash.
Immediate Safety Concerns
The moments following a car accident are critical for ensuring the safety of everyone involved. Taking the proper steps can prevent further harm and set the foundation for a smooth recovery process. Here’s what you need to do immediately after the collision.
Ensure Your Safety and the Safety of Others
The main priority after any car accident is to ensure the safety of everyone involved. If the vehicles are still operable and it is safe to do so, move the cars to the side of the road to avoid obstructing traffic. An important safety measure to take while attempting to move the cars is to turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the crash. If moving the vehicles isn’t possible, stay near the vehicle but out of harm’s way.
Check for Injuries
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately and provide first aid if you are trained. Even if there are no visible injuries, medical evaluation is essential as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Seeking Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, seeking medical attention is crucial. Some injuries may not be apparent immediately because some symptoms take time to manifest. A professional evaluation can ensure you receive the necessary treatment. Keep records of all medical visits, treatments, and expenses, as these will be important for your insurance claim and any potential legal action.
Other Actions to Take
Call the Police
In Colorado, you must report any car accident that results in injury, death, or significant property damage. Call 911 and ask for the police to respond to the scene. They will document the accident and create a police report, which will be very important when it comes time to collect compensation for your losses. Obtain the responding officer’s name and badge number, and be sure to ask them how you can obtain a copy of the police report later.
Exchange Information
You must exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the collision. This information includes names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy details. It’s also helpful to note the vehicles’ make, model, and color.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with all necessary information, including the time, date, place, and general facts. Be honest and detailed in your account of the accident.
However, don’t make incriminating statements or offer any information about fault, and hire a lawyer before speaking to the defendant’s insurer. Insurance companies are notorious for getting injured persons to agree to something that later harms the ability to file a claim for compensation. When dealing with unrepresented claimants, insurers use certain tactics to convince unsuspecting victims to accept small payouts that do not cover their losses.
Therefore, it is always wise to speak with an attorney before calling the insurance company. If you allow your attorney to do your talking for you, you have a far higher likelihood of getting the compensation you need.
Gather Evidence
Collecting evidence helps support your compensation claim. Detailed documentation can make a significant difference in proving fault and securing compensation.
Be sure to document the accident scene, if you can, by taking comprehensive photos and videos of the accident scene from multiple angles. Capture the positions of the vehicles, any damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any other relevant details. This visual evidence can be crucial when proving fault and supporting your insurance claim.
If there are any witnesses, approach them and ask for their contact information. Witness statements can provide valuable third-party perspectives on the accident. Ask them to describe what they saw, and if possible, record their statements.
Consulting with a Lawyer
Navigating the legal and insurance complexities after a car accident can be challenging. Consulting with a specialized lawyer can help with all aspects of your case and ultimately help you get compensated for all your losses.
Why Do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer?
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies and legal matters. A car accident lawyer can help protect your rights, gather additional evidence, assess the full extent of your damages, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
How to Choose the Right Lawyer in Colorado?
When choosing a lawyer, look for someone who specializes in car accidents and has extensive experience with Colorado law. Check their track record, read client reviews, and consider their willingness to offer a free initial consultation. A local lawyer will be familiar with the specific laws and procedures which can benefit your case.
Filing a Claim
To file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, you must provide comprehensive documentation, including the police report, medical records, and evidence from the accident scene. Be prepared to give a detailed account of the accident and its impact on your life.
Contact The Ferrell Law Firm, PPLC
Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, but knowing the steps to take can help you navigate the aftermath more effectively. Ensure your safety and the safety of others, document the accident thoroughly, seek medical attention, and understand your legal responsibilities and rights.
Consulting with a specialized car accident lawyer can provide the support needed to secure the compensation you deserve. Taking prompt and appropriate actions following an accident protects your health, rights, and financial well-being.
For more detailed information and legal assistance, please contact our seasoned car accident attorneys for a free consultation.
Michael, founder of The Ferrell Law Firm, PLLC, specializes in criminal defense and personal injury law. With a background in substance abuse treatment, he brings empathy and understanding to his legal practice. A former Deputy District Attorney in Arapahoe County, Michael has extensive experience prosecuting a wide range of criminal cases, including DUIs and domestic violence. His law degree from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, combined with his hands-on experience in criminal law, positions him as a knowledgeable and effective advocate for his clients’ rights.
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