What to Do if You’re Involved in a Car Accident

Driving is a part of everyday life. Whether a vehicle is needed to commute to work, take the kids to school, or simply get to where one needs to go, automobiles serve important functions. Unfortunately, the number of annual auto accidents shows that car wrecks are also a part of everyday life. There are a few things to do after an auto accident, no matter how large or small the mishap is. Experienced auto accident attorneys are another important resource for anyone involved in an accident. 

Move to Safety

The first and most important thing to do after an accident is move to safety. If it’s not possible to move a damaged vehicle out of the way, the more important consideration is personal safety. From a safe spot, it’s easier to contact a tow company and insurance carriers. It may take time for the tow truck and emergency personnel to arrive, so it’s important to move to an area away from any danger. 

Contact Your Insurance Carrier

Insurance carriers often have approved towing companies and body shops that they work with. This is important information to either know or ask. When a person is unsure what to do, a quick call to their insurance company’s claims team can provide many answers. By utilizing insurance-approved companies, the claims payment process is usually much easier. This telephone call will begin the claims process, an event that can take several weeks or months. They’ll likely require a statement from the policyholder as well as a copy of the police report. Drivers are encouraged to make copies of all documentation, pictures, and written statements. The sooner the process is begun, the better. Unfortunately, the stress of an accident doesn’t end at the scene. The recovery process can be lengthy and incredibly stressful. 

Hire Legal Counsel

Auto accident attorneys have seen it all. If you are looking to find legal representation in auto accident claims then these experts are used to handling insurance companies and other situations that occur after most accidents. Unlike the victims of an accident, they’re aware of how the process will play out and the best approach for their clients. Many people are unsure if the accident that they’ve been involved with warrants hiring an attorney. The answer is almost always an unequivocal yes. This is especially true if you have been involved in a collision with a different type of vehicle such as a truck, as legal specialists like this Sacramento truck accident lawyer can provide expert guidance in a situation that you might be particularly unfamiliar with.

Many insurance companies unscrupulously approach accident victims to try to have them agree to unfair settlements. This works in the insurance company’s favor as it saves them from having to make larger payouts. It’s a disservice to the victim as they may still be rattled by their experience. Additionally, it’s difficult to know the extent of one’s injuries right away. Soft tissue injuries are often caused by car accidents. Such injuries often develop and worsen over time. This means that any settlement made early in the process may not reflect appropriate compensation for injuries that may worsen and might not go away. 

Legal counsel understands the insurance companies’ tactics and how to protect their clients from them. Anyone who wants a fair outcome from their accident needs an experienced attorney on their side.

Auto accident attorneys are important to have, even for small accidents. Anyone who’s been involved in a motor vehicle accident understands just how disruptive it can be. This is especially true when there are multiple vehicles involved. And, any process that involves multiple insurance carriers is even more difficult. The right legal counsel will protect their client’s interests and pursue the most favorable outcome possible. No one should have to deal with the aftermath of an auto accident alone. Contacting a law firm that specializes in vehicular accident cases is a smart move forward.

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