Being involved in a motor vehicle accident is never fun; but if you are injured in the course of the accident that makes matters even worse. Listed below are five important steps to take if you find yourself injured in a motor vehicle accident.
Get Good Info
Get the other party’s information. This includes information from the other driver’s drivers license in order to verify identity and residential address, their license plate number, and automobile insurance information. Verify that their policy has not expired.
File Reports
File necessary paperwork: immediately after the accident you must contact your insurance company to file a claim detailing the circumstances of the accident. At that time be sure to mention any physical symptoms, such as neck or back pain or headaches that you are experiencing, as these may be indicators of a more significant medical injury. In addition, you need to file an accident report with the state department of motor vehicles if $500 or more of estimated damage is incurred due to the accident; depending on circumstances you may also need to file a police report. (Even if you don’t end up needing to file a police report, call the police regardless.)
See a Doctor
Seek medical attention. Even if your symptoms are minor such as neck or back ache, it’s better for you to arrange for a full medical check up your physician’s office, or a designated specialist. It is critical to remember that in the first 24 hours after an accident, one’s adrenaline level may mask the symptoms of a physical injury; symptoms tend to be more pronounced 1 to 4 days after a high-speed collision. Moreover, stay in touch with your insurance company, letting them know about your physical injuries and that you are receiving medical treatment. Also be sure to keep copies of any medical evaluations or expenses in case you end up needing them for a legal case.
If Necessary, Apply for Disability
Disability status: if you are injured and unable to perform your work duties, whether due to physical or mental incapacity, you should file for disability. The first step would be to contact your employer’s HR department and they will will help you initiate paperwork for disability leave from your job; in addition, depending on the length of your disability you may qualify for state disability benefits.
Get Help
Consult an attorney. In any motor vehicle accident where you have been physically injured, it is highly advisable to consult an attorney. Obtain referrals, either from friends/colleagues or through internet searches including reviews, to obtain a reputable and experienced attorney who specializes in personal injury and/or disability cases. Look for someone local, like a Toledo personal injury lawyer if you live in Ohio, since laws change by state. When all is said and done, this fifth step may turn out to be the wisest advice that you ever followed.
Your life can be significantly altered by an auto accident injury. This experience usually happens in a flurry of events, but keep a calm head and remember to document everything, getting information from the other driver, the police and any medical professionals, and potentially a lawyer if the other driver is liable for your auto accident.