The shock of a car accident can consume you quickly. It happens within the blink of an eye. One moment you’re driving peacefully on the road. The next, you’re hearing a blaring horn trying to figure out what happened. In this situation, it’s easy to forget essential things to do or get.
After an accident, there are very important steps you need to take to protect your rights. Here are the things you need to do to help your claim moving forward.
Getting Information
Because Colorado is a fault-based state, you want to get as much information from the other driver as possible. Get his or her driver’s license, license plate number, contact information, and insurance information. Getting the insurance information allows your provider to reach out to the other driver’s insurance company to handle your claim when the other driver is negligent.
Reporting the Accident
Make two phone calls at this point: one to law enforcement and one to your insurance company. A police officer can help to file an accident report that can provide an unbiased view of the accident with vital testimony from both parties and any witnesses. Calling your insurance company gets your statement on record quickly, allowing you to protect your rights from the beginning.
Building Evidence
Take pictures of the accident scene, damage to all vehicles, and visible injuries you and your passengers suffer. From there, you want to speak with witnesses at the scene who can back your story up. Be sure to get valid contact information from the witnesses to give to your insurance company.
Seeing a Medical Professional
Whether you see a paramedic, go to the emergency room, or schedule a quick checkup with your primary doctor, it’s important to seek medical treatment when you suffer an injury. Getting medical treatment allows you to start your recovery, and the medical records are crucial to showing you suffered an injury. In some situations, a doctor can dictate if the accident was the cause of the injury.
Hiring a Lawyer
It’s important to have strong legal counsel when you’re going up against a large insurance company. Protecting your rights with an attorney gives you a strong opportunity to pursue the compensation you need when you need it the most.
At Gaddis, Herd, Craw & Adams, P.C., we’ll be there to fight the good fight on your behalf. It’s our top priority to pursue the compensation you deserve after an injury resulting from negligence. Our Colorado Springs car accident attorneys are here for you every step of the way.
Call us today at (719) 249-6240 to discuss your potential case.