While we hope you never need it, below is a checklist that outlines what you need to do to get proper medical attention, preserve potential evidence, and protect your rights after a vehicle accident.
Be Safe.
Move to a safe location and stay calm.
Call 911.
If anyone is hurt, call 9-1-1 and request medical assistance. Inform the operator that you were in a vehicle accident with injuries.
Document the Scene.
If your medical state permits, take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the location and position of any vehicles involved including the other license plates. Then, write down how the accident occurred, the condition of the vehicles involved, and any relevant information about weather and road conditions. The data you collect may be used during an investigation.
Write Down any Witnesses.
Request the name and telephone number from any bystanders who witnessed the accident.
Obtain a Police Accident Report.
The police accident report will be crucial for any insurance claims. Request that the officer provide either a copy of the police accident report or the case number. If you are unable to obtain a copy, it is available within 7-10 days through local law enforcement or your attorney will be able to get it.
Contact a Reputable Personal Injury Law Firm.
If you were injured in the accident, contact a reputable and experienced law firm such as Rader Law Group to protect your rights and recover any medical costs and lost earnings to which you are entitled.
Be Cautious with Communication
Avoid discussing the details of the accident nor fault with anyone other than your attorney.
Additionally, do not answer calls from unknown numbers. Although illegal, hustlers may solicit and attempt to prey on accident victims.
Contact your Insurance Company and the Insurance Party of the Other Party
Do not allow either insurance company to take a “recorded statement” nor discuss which party was “at fault.” Instead, simply inform them of the vehicle accident and only the information they need to initiate a claim: individuals involved in the accident as well as a brief description of the accident, any damage, and injuries.
Do NOT discuss settlements nor imply that you are willing to settle the insurance claim. Also, do NOT sign anything without first discussing with your attorney.
Meet with Your Attorney
Be prepared during your initial meeting with your attorney. Make sure you have the following documents:
- Police accident report or case number
- All medical treatment and injury-related bills and receipts
- Vehicle repair estimates and receipts
- Insurance company communications
Rader Law Group, LLC
With decades and decades combined experience, the attorneys at Rader Law Group understand the meaning of Justice. Our one and only mission is to get each client the justice he or she deserves; our team of attorneys never back down when we know our client is right.
We offer our clients the compassion and guidance they need as they work through trying times in their lives. The balance of working relentlessly for our clients combined with our caring approach has helped us achieve a fantastic record of success with our clients. We get our clients the justice they deserve.
At Rader Law Group, You matter. Your justice matters. Your Justice Starts Here. 954-913-2273