What To Do After You Have Been Injured in a Car Accident? Obtaining the financial restitution you deserve following an injury because of a car accident is an important part of your recovery. In spite of this, obtaining compensation is not an easy process. In fact, the process of filing a personal injury claim is a challenging and can be very complex.
One of the first things you should know about filing a claim in California is that you do not have a lot of time to pursue a claim. In California, you have two (2) years from the time of the injury to file a personal injury claim. In the event that the ailment was not discovered straightaway, you will have one (1) year from the time of the discovery to file the claim.
Even when a personal injury claim is complicated, the benefits of filing a claim can help you and your family through the recovery process. The following are some common damages you may be able to recover:
- Current medical care and future medical need,
- Loss of earning capacity,
- Vehicle repairs and/or vehicle replacement,
- Loss of quality of life,
- Emotional distress, and
- Pain and suffering
If you have recently suffered injuries as a result of a car accident, the following are important steps that can help you build a strong case, and thus protect your rights as a victim. What you do immediately after an accident can determine whether your case is successful or not.
After a Car Accident Contact Emergency Response Services, or Call the Police
A majority of car accidents will not result in emergency circumstances but it is important that whether the accident is major or minor, you contact the police. In case your injuries did not require emergency medical attention, having a police officer at the scene can help your claim. A police officer will make a report that can validate your version of events, which can be beneficial when making a claim. This documents the incident as well as creates a paper trail of the injuries/accident.
Moreover, if you did not require emergency medical attention, you will need to seek medical as soon as possible. For many people, a car accident can be a highly traumatic experience, and the sudden rush of emotions can alter one’s ability to feel pain. According to the Hormone Health Network, stressful situations can release the excess of a hormone known as adrenaline. This hormone can alter a person’s breathing and blood flow, ultimately affecting a person’s perception of pain after an injury. When you have suffered a car accident, seeking medical attention whether you feel pain or not can help you ensure that any injuries you may not recognize are being treated.
Document the Scene of the Incident
If possible, document the scene of the collision as best as possible. Taking pictures of the scene can be one of the best methods of corroborating your account. Taking pictures of the following can help your case:
- All vehicles involved in the accident, including the interior and exterior of each vehicle,
- Visible skid marks on the road,
- Posted street signs, and
- Weather conditions and street visibility
You can also make a written report of the events that lead to the collision.
Obtain Other Party’s Contact Information
After the collision, most people will know to exchange contact information with all the parties or drivers involved. Information that should be collected includes:
- Names,
- Phone Numbers and addresses,
- Insurance policy numbers, and
- License plate numbers and VIN numbers
It is also beneficial to obtain the contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident happen. Eyewitnesses can be very important to your case, especially when the other party is challenging your version of events.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Injury Attorney
Motor vehicle accidents will almost always present challenges that can be difficult for any person to go through alone. As an injured victim, you will likely face serious emotional and financial difficulty. After a car accident, it is important that you seek the legal support of an experienced car accident attorney. A qualified attorney will defend your rights and ensure that you are awarded the financial restitution you rightfully deserve.
After an auto accident, it is vital to seek the experience of a dedicated law firm that will help you pursue the compensation you deserve. At R. Steven Peters – Injury & Accident Lawyers, it is our priority to protect the rights of auto accident victims who have been injured as a result of another’s negligence. Personal injury claims are a complex but necessary process. With a successful claim, you may be able to obtain compensation for the loss of income, loss of transportation, and pain and suffering. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.