What is the First Thing I Should Do if I Have Been Injured in a Car Accident?
A car accident can leave you reeling. You may be feeling fine one minute. A moment later, you may be injured, confused, upset, stressed out, and maybe a little frazzled all at once. The adrenaline kicks in, and you do not know what to do.
But after a crash, knowledge is power. You need to take the right steps in order to treat your injuries, recover compensation, and move forward with your life. Here’s a look at the first things you should do if you have been injured in a car accident.
Check For Injuries
After a crash, your first step should be to assess yourself. How are you feeling? Are you injured?
Call 911
If you or someone else involved in the accident has suffered any injuries, be sure to call 911. Getting prompt medical care is very important when filing a claim.
Seek Immediate Medical Treatment
If you think you might have injuries, now is not the time to worry about the cost. Medical bills do not have to be paid right away. Your health is the most important thing you should be thinking about. Do not assume the pain will go away. See a doctor right away, the sooner, the better.
The longer you wait to receive medical attention, the more likely the insurance company will argue that you were not hurt as a result of the accident. This is a common defense.
Get a Police Report
If there are injuries or significant damage involved, it is a good idea to call the police and get a report. Without a police report, you could end up in a “he-said, she-said” situation, which will not help your case. Instead, the police come out and investigate. They will interview the parties involved, examine the accident scene, inspect the vehicles, and determine who was at fault in the accident. This report can be the most persuasive piece of evidence when proving liability in a car crash.
Get Comprehensive Testing
Make sure that you request and receive all necessary diagnostic tests and exams when receiving treatment for your injuries following an accident. Your main concern should be that any injuries you may have sustained are discovered and documented. You must be an advocate for yourself and your health. As such, make sure you receive the necessary X-rays, MRIs, scans, and other tests so that your injuries can be appropriately diagnosed.
Gather Documentation
To prove the severity of your injuries, you should keep all documentation, such as medical records, bills, and prescriptions. Make note of all exams and procedures needed, such as surgeries and devices.
Contact Us Today
After a car accident, you need to know what steps to take. Make sure you take appropriate action so you can get the compensation you deserve.
A Buffalo car accident lawyer from Steve Foley Law Firm can help you after a crash. We are well-positioned to advocate for your rights and compensation. To schedule a consultation, contact us via (716) 575-3236 or online here.