What to Do After You Have Been Involved in a Car Accident
Being injured in a car accident is an overwhelming experience in many ways. After you have been injured in a car accident, the steps that you take are important and can make a significant difference for your health and your claim for damages.
Below we discuss some steps to take following a collision, as well as some tips about things to be aware of and avoid.
Report the Crash
You should always report the collision to law enforcement immediately after the crash occurs. Both Washington law and Oregon law require reports to law enforcement under nearly every circumstance. Most automobile insurance policies also require reporting to law enforcement. Police agencies have different policies on whether they will respond to the scene of crash and prepare a written police report or not. They may also assist in exchanging information between the involved drivers. Obtaining a copy of the police report is also useful for when you report the collision to insurance.
You should also report the collision to your own car insurance company. They may ask you how the crash happened and if you were injured.
Get Medical Care
Your health is the most important consideration after you have been involved in a car crash. It is always a good idea to get checked by a medical provider. Even if you do not feel any symptoms right away, it is better to see a medical provider to rule out any serious health conditions. Some car accident injuries do not immediately show effects in the days after a crash. Obtaining quick and appropriate medical care may help increase your chances of making the fullest recovery possible from any injuries you sustained.
Things to Be Aware of and Avoid
Insurance companies and legal claims for injuries can make things complicated following a collision. Most people don’t realize that some actions they take after a crash can be detrimental to their claim for injuries. The tips below discuss a few common scenarios to be aware of and avoid:
- You do not have to give a recorded statement to the at-fault driver’s insurance company. They can use information you provide to them and things you say to them to negatively impact your claim. You may choose not to speak to the at-fault driver’s insurance company at all until you have spoken with a personal injury attorney.
- Avoid making social media posts (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, SnapChat) about either the collision or your life in the days afterwards, because you must assume that the insurance company can and will gain access to your social media
- The at-fault driver’s insurance company may make a very quick and early offer to settle your personal injury claim before you’ve had the chance to get and/or complete your medical treatment. You do not have to accept this offer.
Consider Legal Representation
Many people become overwhelmed and frustrated with trying to handle their personal injury claims on their own while also trying to focus on their injuries and recovery. Contacting a car accident attorney to schedule a free initial consultation to go over any questions you have and discuss your claim can help take the weight off of your shoulders. Having a lawyer on your side helps ensure that your claim is established, protected, and presented in the best way possible.
Contact a Vancouver Car Accident Law Firm
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle crash, the car accident attorneys at Schauermann Thayer are in your corner. Schedule a free initial consultation with a Vancouver car accident attorney by filling out an online contact form or by calling us today at (360) 695-4244.
