Since Arizona is an at-fault insurance state, the driver who causes a crash is responsible for the compensation. However, if you don’t follow the right steps, it may weaken your claim.
You should do everything you can to ensure you are compensated fully for the damages you’ve incurred. These five things to do after a car accident can help make sure you don’t make any mistakes.
1. Get Immediate Medical Treatment
If you are injured, you should go to the hospital or a doctor for an evaluation. You should call 911 to get the police and emergency medical services to take care of anyone who is injured and transport them to the hospital if necessary.
Often, serious injuries are internal and don’t have visible wounds. Ignoring medical care is unwise and could jeopardize your health as well as your claim. Following up on all medical care is advised and is important because it will help you recover and prove the legitimacy of your injuries.
2. Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Even though you’ll call the police to report an accident with injuries or damages, you need to exchange information with the other driver. If anyone saw the accident, it’s a good idea to get their contact information. They may be instrumental in filling in the blanks of what happened during the accident.
3. Get the Evidence You Need
Evidence from the accident scene will help during the investigation. Get photos and videos of all involved vehicles that show the damage and their positioning. You’ll also want to keep detailed records of all medical bills and expenses incurred during this time. Keeping a journal can help you record all the details that will become fuzzier as time passes while giving you a place to document the level of pain of your injuries.
4. Be Careful About the Things You Say
The at-fault driver’s insurance company will likely call you after the accident, but they’re not being courteous. They’re fishing for information, hoping you’ll say something they can use against you. While you must contact your insurer to report any collision as per the terms of your contract, you have no legal obligation to speak to the other driver’s insurer.
Additionally, you’ll want to avoid posting about your accident online. The adjuster will also look at your social media accounts in an attempt to dispute your claim.
5. Contact an Auto Accident Attorney
Find an auto accident law firm and work with an attorney as soon as possible after your car accident. You are not legally required to have one, but if your injuries and damages are serious, you need a legal advocate on your side. A lawyer can help you avoid making a mistake that could weaken your claim and cost you the money you deserve.
Your attorney can also help you negotiate the settlement with the insurance company while you work on resting and healing. With these tips, you’ll be more likely to reduce the stress of this traumatic event.
Featured Photo by Nikita Nikitin: https://www.pexels.com
