After being in a car accident, there are a few things you should do to protect your health and your right to compensation. Our car accident lawyers in Tacoma would advise you to do the following.
Ensure Your Safety
Immediately following an accident, make sure you and your passengers are in a position where you cannot suffer further harm. Move your vehicle off to the side of the road if you can. Check to see if you, your passengers, or the other driver needs immediate medical assistance. If anyone is injured, try not to move them unless absolutely necessary, such as an imminent danger.
Call the Police
Call 911. Let the operator know where you are and everyone’s medical condition. Give clear details such as the closest intersection, the direction you were traveling, and where your vehicle is now located. Let the operator know the types of injuries people have suffered.
When the police arrive, be cooperative and as calm as possible. Stick with only the facts as you know them. Don’t make assumptions or present hypotheticals. Only answer what is asked. Don’t give additional information, and do not admit fault. Don’t even apologize to the other driver. Share your contact and insurance information with the other driver, but nothing else.
See a Doctor or Medical Professional
Do not make assumptions about your health. No matter how you feel, see a doctor as soon as possible. For one thing, you may feel fine, but you may have internal injuries you’re unaware of. A doctor can order tests and provide a full examination.
Second, seeing a doctor as soon as possible protects your right to an accident injury claim. Your doctor’s report can tie your injuries to the accident.
Call Jackman Law Firm for a Free Case Evaluation
When you call Jackman Law Firm, our legal team can provide you with a free case evaluation. Our personal injury lawyers can discuss your options and make sure you do not sign any settlement documents with an insurance company before we know the true value of your case. But time is limited. Per RCW § 4.16.080, you only have three years to file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires.
Contact us today so we can help you on the road to recovery.