- Make sure everyone involved is safe. This means that you should immediately stop and pull over to the side of the road and out of oncoming traffic.
- Report the accident. Filing an accident report with law enforcement will not only provide your insurance company with a basis on how to properly handle your claim, but will also give them an accurate crash report and will identify all parties involved.
- Exchange information. Get as much information as you can from the other driver. It is important to get their name, phone number, address, a copy of their insurance card, driver’s license, make and model of their car, and license plate. Taking photos with your cell phone of the other person’s driver’s license, insurance card, license plate, etc. is a quick way to gather this information.
- Take photos and gather evidence. If it is safe, walk around the scene and take pictures not only of the any damage, but of 100 feet around the perimeter of the accident. Photographic evidence is hard to dispute. Talk to witnesses and get their contact information.
- Call your insurance company. Many insurance policies may require immediate reporting and full cooperation. Any delays in reporting your car accident could harm your case later.
- Seek medical attention. Often times injuries are not immediately apparent. Many people report feeling pain a day or two after the accident. You should seek medical attention at your local emergency room or with your primary care doctor. Even with minor accidents, you might have sustained a serious neck or back injury. If you lost consciousness or felt dazed after the accident, you may have suffered a concussion or a closed head injury.
- Call a lawyer. Talk to an experienced car accident lawyer immediately. A good lawyer will help you navigate your claim and help you figure out what kind of insurance coverages are available to you so that your medical bills can get paid. A good car accident lawyer will also communicate with insurance adjusters on your behalf. Insurance adjusters do not always have your best interests at heart and you want to make sure your interests are protected.
Call Melissa Hart today for a free case evaluation and consultation. Let’s figure out your next steps together.
Melissa Hart has been practicing law in Washington State since 2003. During WWII, Melissa’s dad was born in Japanese a internment camp in Colorado. This injustice resonated throughout her life and propelled her into the field of law. Her legal career has focused on being a voice and advocate for the little guy. Melissa gained invaluable trial experience working as a public defender in King County and also worked for a large insurance company learning how bodily injury claims are evaluated and litigated. Today, Melissa’s practice focuses on representing fault-free individuals hurt in car accidents obtain the justice they deserve.
- If you or someone you know has recently been involved in a car incident, don’t let insurance companies get the best of you. Get what you deserve and find representation who will give you the voice you need. Learn more about Melissa’s work here.
