5 Important Things You Need To Do To Protect Your Rights After You've Been In An Accident

If you've been in an accident that is the fault of a negligent driver or another party, you're eligible for compensation. However, you need to know how to protect your rights following the accident to maximize your chances of winning your case and getting the compensation you deserve.

The following are five important things you need to do to protect your rights after you've been in an accident:

Make sure you contact the police so that they can write up a report about the accident.

Don't ever let another driver you're in an accident with talk you out of contacting the police. It's always a good idea to contact the police to have a report written up after the incident so that an unbiased account of the event is officially recorded.

Carefully record all of the proceedings at the accident scene.

You're not going to be able to get compensation for accident damages if you don't have evidence that can be presented in court showing what happened.

When the accident occurs, take down information like the insurance details of the other driver(s), contact information of any witnesses, and photographs of the surroundings.

Be aware of any statute of limitations that may apply to your case.

Every state sets a statute of limitations regarding personal injury cases. A statute of limitations is a period of time after which you can no longer file suit regarding accident damages. You won't get any compensation if you don't file suit before the statute of limitations is up.

This link will take you to a page where you can find out what the statute of limitations is in your state.

Visit a doctor, and keep careful records regarding your medical treatment.

You need to see the doctor right away if your claim involves medical expenses. Choose your doctor wisely because your doctor is going to have to provide you with medical records and possibly expert testimony that back up your claim.

Don't overlook an injury and procrastinate about seeing a doctor. This can undermine your case and make you appear negligent about attending to your injuries. If you wait to seek treatment, medical costs could rise because the severity of your injury increases.

Don't allow the insurance company to record any conversation with you unless your lawyer is present.

Inevitably, you're going to be dealing with your insurance company after your accident and filing a claim. This is especially true if your vehicle was damaged and you've experienced an injury.

It's a good idea to refuse to discuss your claim with an adjuster unless your lawyer is present to offer counsel. If you are still looking for a lawyer, check out a law firm like Kaston & Aberle.