After you’re in a car crash, you have a million things on your mind. How can you afford to stay home from work? What happens now? Who can you call to pick up your kids? Are you hurt? Do you need to go to the hospital?
These are just a few of the things you already have to consider, and there are many more. Fortunately, what you need to do after a crash is relatively straightforward, and your attorney can help you handle your legal claim. So, what should you do after a crash? Here are four things to remember.
1. Go to the hospital
It’s a mistake to not go to the hospital, no matter how you feel. Even if you’re sure you’re not hurt, some injuries won’t appear until later. Things like bruising and whiplash may not be apparent now but will develop as your adrenaline wears off. It’s a good idea to go to the hospital now to make sure you get a full checkup. Your doctor may see something wrong that you didn’t realize you were suffering from.
2. Talk to the police and file a report
When you’re in the position to do so, file a police report. Many people do this at the scene of the accident, and if you’re healthy enough to do so, you may want to do that before going to the hospital. If you have to go to the hospital, an officer may come to see you to speak to you about the crash.
After the police finish their investigation and the report is filed, make sure you get a copy. You should check it for errors and then keep that copy for your attorney.
3. Keep your medical records
Remember to keep your medical records after you get into a car crash. Even if it’s only the initial visit to the hospital that you end up needing, it’s the responsibility of the person at fault for the crash to cover that expense. Your attorney will use this information to negotiate a settlement with the person’s insurance company.
4. Give your attorney your documents
As you collect new documents, keep them somewhere safe. You should give them to your attorney, or have someone you know deliver them, so your attorney has all the information on the expenses you’re accruing. Knowing how much your injuries cost, as well as the cost of damages, helps your attorney negotiate for the best possible settlement. If a settlement isn’t possible, this evidence helps a court decide on your award when you go to trial.
Your attorney can help you by dealing with the legal side of the crash while you focus on your health. You deserve time to recover without having to worry about building a case.
Source: Nov. 30, -0001
