What Should I do if I’m Injured in a Car Accident?

Step 1. Call 911

First and foremost, if you are involved in a car accident, without at doubt the first thing you should do is call 911. This is important for several reasons:

Health and safety - the most important reason to call 911 is to get evaluated for medical treatment. Even if you feel “fine” after a car accident, it is strongly recommended you seek immediate medical treatment (whether you choose to be taken by squad or have a friend or family member drive you).

Determining who was at fault - A police officer will conduct the first investigation on your case. That investigation will be critical in determining who was at fault for the car accident.

Documenting injuries and property damage - Some injuries are more obvious than others. But injuries will heal. A police officer should take photographs of any injuries you sustained in the car accident. Saying you had a gash on your head is much less convincing than a picture of the gash on your head. Pictures really are worth a thousand words when it comes to proving damages after a car accident.

Also, police officers will document damage to your vehicle. The same concept applies when talking about the damage to your car. Saying your vehicle was totaled is much less convincing than a picture showing the extent of the damages to your vehicle.

Collecting evidence - first responders will collect and document various types of evidence such as photographs and witness statements. These will prove invaluable for your injury claim. Memories will fade over time. Having statements from witnesses immediately after a car accident is much more convincing than relying on a witness’s memory of the car accident several months or a year afterwards.

Step 2. Seek Medical Treatment

The longer you wait to see a doctor, the more difficult it is to make a strong case to the insurance company for damages. There is really no downside to seeking medical treatment. You will be evaluated by a medical professional and any injuries will be documented. Additionally, insurance companies love to point out that you waited days, weeks, or longer to seek medical treatment. They will argue your injuries are exaggerated or worse, that you only sought medical treatment because your lawyer told you to. Why give them the opportunity to make that argument? Do yourself a favor and see a doctor immediately following a car accident.

Medical professionals will begin to document everything from the moment they see you. So be specific when answering questions about your injuries. If something hurts or feels different, say so. Make sure it is documented. At some point, the insurance company will get those documents and if there is nothing in there about your neck or back hurting, guess what the defense will be when you are trying to claim the car accident was the cause of your neck or back pain a year or so down the road?

It is equally important to follow through with treatment. If the doctor recommends physical therapy, then follow through with that recommendation. If the doctor refers you to a specialist, then make an appointment. If you are told to follow up at a certain time, then follow up. Whatever you do, DO NOT stop treating. If there are gaps in treatment, the insurance company will likely argue your injuries are not that serious, or your injuries are not related to the car accident.

Step 3. Contact a Lawyer

You will need an experienced personal injury lawyer if you want to maximize the value of your claim. A lawyer will guide you through the process and protect your rights along the way. The insurance companies have lawyers protecting them, you should too.

Step 4. Document your daily activities

After calling 911, seeking medical treatment, and contacting a lawyer, we recommend you document your own injuries and property damage. Take pictures of your car. Take pictures or have a friend or family member take pictures of your injuries. Take pictures of your injuries regularly. Progress pictures really illustrate the timeline of your recovery. Another great way to document your recovery is to keep a diary. Document each situation where your injuries prevented you from doing regular daily activities. For example, saying it is difficult to carry groceries is not going to be persuasive to the insurance company. Adjusters hear that a thousand times a day. Give specifics. Stories are persuasive.