I’ve been injured in an accident

Once you identify that you have been injured in a car accident, you should seek immediate medical treatment. Calling the local police or 911 is likely the best option for immediate medical evaluation or safe transportation to the hospital. Law enforcement will also do a preliminary investigation and document all necessary information at the scene, like talking to witnesses. Shock and adrenaline from the accident can mask symptoms of serious injuries, so don’t shrug off any injury indicators. 

Delay in immediate medical treatment also introduces doubt that you were injured as a result of the car accident for the insurance companies. Insurance companies, even your own, follow a business model that requires them to minimize payouts, so their interests may not necessarily align with your well-being. When you’re able, you should notify your insurance company of the accident, as you’re contractually obligated to do, but giving a detailed account can likely wait until after medical treatment and speaking with a lawyer.     

When you receive medical treatment following a car accident, it is important to describe your injuries thoroughly and in detail. Again, small symptoms can help identify serious injuries such as concussions, soft tissue, and back injuries which commonly don’t present the severity immediately. Requesting and receiving all necessary tests and examinations that the medical provider identifies is crucial for a detailed medical review. 

The long-term effects of your injuries and understanding your recovery plan are important pieces to understanding the monetary compensation that will be required to cover your care. Contacting a personal injury attorney for a free consultation is your best next step on the road to recovering from a car accident. An experienced personal injury attorney can explain and assist with many of the less obvious problems associated with your car accident, such as the vehicle damage claim and repair and negotiating the expenses for ongoing medical treatment. In addition, your lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance company on your behalf and make sure your well-being is the first consideration.