What to Do and What Not to Do After a Car Accident
Car accidents are some of the most common misfortunes that happen worldwide. On average, millions of people suffer from fatal traffic accidents each year. Driving whilst distracted, intoxicated, or with no regard for traffic laws, are some of the most commonly cited reasons for accidents. Despite the regular occurrence of traffic accidents, there is still a great misconception about what to do, and what not to do, after experiencing an accident.
If you have been involved in a car accident at the expense of someone else’s negligence, you may be able to claim for vehicle damage and medical expenses. Insurance claims only go as far as covering the damages of your vehicle, however, suing for personal injury can provide you with compensation for medical expenses, treatment costs, and overall damages to your lifestyle. State farm accident claims are notorious for being difficult to win, nevertheless, with the right legal guidance, you can receive your rightful compensation. However, before getting into the legal details you must first know how to handle the prospect of a car accident.
What Not to Do
The worst thing that you could do after suffering from a car accident is fleeing the scene of the crime. If the accident has caused physical damage to the vehicle or any injuries to the individuals involved, fleeing the scene of the crime is an automatic misdemeanor. Depending on the gravity of the incident you could also be subjected to a fine or even jail time.
Another common mistake that occurs amongst victims of traffic accidents is settling for the first check you are offered. Insurance companies are experienced in dealing with personal injury claims and their first settlement typically won’t be their best offer. You could be offered a sum of $1000 and coverage of reasonable medical bills. Although this may seem like a good deal at first, you may find that your injuries require much more attention and a longer healing process. Don’t jump at the first offer you get.
What You Should Do
First things first, you should call the police to come and document the accident. This will serve as substantial proof that the accident occurred and help avoid anyone from changing their story at a later date. No matter how the accident has appeared to unfold, you need to check that the other driver is in good health and exchange contact information. You also need to worry about your own health and seek medical assistance immediately. The pain may not be unbearable but, more often than not, the adrenaline released during an accident can overshadow potential injuries. The most important aspect of being in an accident is making sure you get through it as easily as possible. This means hiring the right attorney and taking the time for your health to fully recover. Being in an accident is a highly stressful ordeal, however, having the right guidance during this time can make the experience much more manageable. Follow our tips and try to focus on getting better.
