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There are some important steps you will want to take if you are involved in a car accident.**
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Your health is the most important
If it is necessary you should go to the emergency room or schedule an appointment with your regular doctor. Any bills associated with the accident should be billed through your regular health insurance, if they are covered.
Record all the details of the accident
Try to determine responsibility for the accident or injury. The police should be notified and you should request that a report be made when you are involved in an accident that was someone else’s fault. If you do not choose to involve the police, you should definitely obtain the contact information for everyone involved and their insurance companies. This information should include the names and contact information of any witnesses. If you are able to safely take pictures of the cars and the road with your cell phone, you should do so.
Notify your insurance agent
Review your own insurance policy and immediately contact your insurance company or agent. You may be entitled to payments for medical bills (“med pay coverage”). If the other driver does not have insurance or they do not have enough insurance (“uninsured and underinsured motorists” coverage) your own car insurance may apply.
Be polite and cooperative when reporting the accident. You generally do not need to give a recorded statement. You should refrain from discussing your injuries until you are released from your doctor’s care.
Document all your injuries and any expenses
Expenses, including bills and receipts, any time lost from work due to the accident should be documented. Take photographs of the vehicles, the accident scene, as well as your own injuries when you can.
If you caused or may be responsible for the accident
Don’t leave the scene of an accident. Be cooperative. You will need to provide truthful information to the police. If you have insurance, you should report the accident to your own agent or insurance company. They will be able to take care of investigating the accident, settling any claims based on the available coverage, or hiring a lawyer to defend you, if it is necessary.
Personal Injury Attorneys PLLC
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