When to Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer (and 5 More Things To Do After a Crash)

Car accidents happen in the blink of an eye. They’re shocking and overwhelming, and if you find yourself wondering what to do next, you’re not alone. It’s difficult to know what to do in the aftermath of a crash, but taking certain steps can help protect yourself, your property, and your rights.

Our car accident lawyers at Boren, Oliver, & Coffey, LLP, are here to help. We’ve worked with hundreds of Hoosiers on personal injury cases following auto accidents, and we handle the legal aspects of the incidents so you can focus on what matters most: recovery.

Here’s what to do after a car accident, and why contacting a car accident lawyer can make this traumatic time easier for you and your loved ones.

1. Check for injuries and call for help

After a car accident, start by checking for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if nobody appears injured, it’s still a good idea to call the police to the scene of the accident. The police will create an official record of the incident, and they can help you exchange information with other drivers.

2. Exchange information with the other driver(s)

After ensuring everyone’s safety, exchange information with all the other drivers involved in the crash. Get their names, contact information, and insurance information. If there were any witnesses, ask for their contact information as well. Collecting this information is important for insurance purposes, but it can also prove essential if you need to file a personal injury claim later.

3. Document the scene of the crash

Use your phone to take pictures and videos of the scene of the accident. This can include pictures of damage to any vehicles or property. It’s also a good idea to take pictures of any injuries you or your passengers sustained in the accident.

4. Seek medical attention

Even if you don’t think you’re injured, you should seek medical attention after a car accident. Many of the most common car accident injuries, like concussions and whiplash, don’t show symptoms immediately.

Seeing a doctor ensures any injuries are properly diagnosed and treated. Plus, going to the doctor creates a record of your injuries, which is helpful in personal injury cases.

5. Don’t talk to the other driver’s insurance companies without a lawyer

The other driver’s insurance company may contact you after your car accident, but you shouldn’t speak to them without a car accident lawyer present. Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to pay out as little as possible in claims.

It’s not uncommon for insurance companies to try to get you to settle for less than you deserve or say things that can be used against you later. Having a lawyer present helps protect your rights and ensures that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

6. Contact a car accident lawyer

If you’re involved in a car accident, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Dealing with vehicle damage, injuries, medical bills, and lost wages can be overwhelming, and you don’t have to handle it alone.

Our car accident lawyers help you navigate the legal process from start to finish. We examine your case and help you recover losses suffered in the incident, whether that’s maximum compensation from insurance, assistance with medical bills, or something else entirely.

Engaging a car accident lawyer early on is the best way to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Call our offices in Bloomington and Martinsville, Indiana, or request a free consultation online now.