Auto Accident Lawyer
Roughly 3 million people are injured in car accidents in the United States every day. Rear-end collisions are estimated to be responsible for nearly 30 percent of accidents that result in serious injuries.
While whiplash is the most common injury stemming from these crashes, other injuries are common and can range from relatively mild to extremely serious in nature, depending on the speed at which the accidents took place. In addition to whiplash, injuries could include:
- Brain injuries
- Concussions
- Back and neck sprains
- Spinal Cord injuries
- Broken ribs or collarbones
- Leg, knee or ankle injuries
- Internal injuries
- Facial lacerations
If you have been the victim of an accident that was caused by someone else’s careless driving, what should you do?
Get Medical Assistance Within 24-48 Hours of the Accident
Some passengers may refuse medical attention at the scene since they aren’t in pain. What they may not realize is that many injuries, especially those impact soft tissues in the back and neck, don’t trigger discomfort or pain until a few hours or days after the accident. If victims don’t seek medical attention promptly, an insurance company might deny them payment for their expenses.
Don’t Discuss the Accident With the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
Sometimes insurance companies call accident victims, asking them numerous questions and hoping to get them to accept some of the blame for the accident. They may offer to pay for a few doctor’s appointments. In most cases, it’s wise not to discuss the accident with the insurer or take the company’s initial offer.
Track Your Expenses
Costs of car repairs, lost work time, medical appointments and physical therapy or chiropractic sessions and projected costs of future medical care should potentially be covered by the at-fault driver or their insurer.
Collect Evidence
Were the police called to the accident? If so, a police report determining which driver caused the accident should be filed. Did others witness the accident (perhaps even passengers in your car or the other car)? Get their names and contact information.
Consult an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
These attorneys can review your case and advise you on the next best steps. Most of them work on a contingency basis, so you won’t have to pay any up-front costs. Once engaged, they can help you navigate the legal process, collect evidence, depose witnesses and make sure your rights are protected.
As you can see, there are many options to consider, as an attorney, like an auto accident lawyer in Indianapolis, IN, at a law office such as Ward & Ward Law Firm, can explain.