Knowing what to do after a car accident can possibly save you thousands. There are some key things that you need to be aware of, if you happen to be involved in a vehicle accident. We can assist in guiding you through any legalities, that may arise as a result of being involved in an accident.
Police must be contacted immediately after vehicle accident (Dial 911). The vehicles should be left where they are if possible, until the police arrive on the scene. There is also some important information that you should obtain from the other driver, such as:
Pictures of the damaged vehicle as well as the accident scene itself should be taken. It is important that this is done as soon as possible, as scenes may change quickly depending on the time of day or the weather conditions.
Consult a doctor urgently, regardless of whether you think you are injured or not, as injuries that result from vehicle accidents, do not necessarily manifest themselves immediately. A visit to a doctor will allow for the commencement of a permanent record of any injuries related to the accident.
You also need to contact the Department of Motor Vehicles to advise them of the accident. In most cases, if there is damage exceeding $500, injuries or a fatality, the accident must be reported. You also need to be knowledgeable of any time limits, that are specified in our insurance policy.
You need to inform the insurance carrier of the other person, if you are injured. You are not legally required to divulge detailed information on these injuries. All your medical bills should be submitted to your own insurance company, as it is their responsibility to obtain reimbursement from the insurance company of the other driver./
If you are not clear-headed, do not give any statements to the police or anyone else. Wait until you are healthy enough, then you can provide a statement to the police officer on the scene. You should not give any type of written or oral statement to the other insurance carrier. A copy of your statement and the relevant record can be provided to them by your insurance company.
If the other insurance company sends an authorization agreement, you are advised not to sign it. This authorization usually releases your medical and employment records for them to review. You have the right to find out from the insurance company which records are required, and then provide them only with the records that are pertinent to your case.
You claim should not be settled prematurely, or should you exaggerate the extent of your injuries or damage. If this is eventually revealed, you will receive nothing and could face a counter-suit. Unless you have verified anything the other insurance company tells you, with your own company or a qualified lawyer, then do not readily believe them.
Please contact our auto accident attorneys today, if you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident so that your free consultation can be scheduled. Do not delay, just call Law Offices of Matthew C. Hines at (770) 874-1754.