5 Steps to Take Following a Crash

A vehicle involved in an accident with a damaged rear

The shock following a severe car accident can leave you questioning what to do next. Unfortunately, you may encounter several problems and resistance from insurance adjusters who want to protect profits first and people second. Because you deserve to pursue compensation following your crash, it helps to know what steps you should take to safeguard your rights.

What you do after a crash can dictate how your claim proceeds. Below, we will detail very specific steps that help protect you after a collision. These steps allow you to safeguard your rights with confidence moving forward.

The steps you should take include:

  1. Contacting a lawyer
  2. Exchanging information with the other driver
  3. Reporting the crash to local law enforcement
  4. Taking photos as evidence
  5. Getting medical treatment

Call our firm today at 304-345-6789 for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Contacting a Lawyer

When you experience a crash, you usually think to call your insurance company first. Before you do so, know that they may not be willing to work with you. In minor fender benders, it may not be as concerning. However, insurance companies may be hesitant to give out compensation when you need it most for large claims.

Instead of contacting insurance adjusters directly, be sure to call a lawyer and get someone with legal knowledge on your side. An attorney can help with the claims-filing process from the very first step, protecting your rights moving forward to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Exchanging Information with the Other Driver

Exchange information with the other driver to provide to your legal counsel. When speaking with the other driver, be sure to get their driver’s license, contact information, and insurance card. Take photos of all information you get so that you never lose important paperwork. The information you gather helps your attorney file the claim and pursue compensation from the correct party.

Reporting the Crash to Local Law Enforcement

One question we often receive is, “should I report my crash to the police?” In minor crashes, it may not be necessary. However, West Virginia law requires you to report a crash to police when damages exceed $1,000, or if someone suffers severe or fatal injuries.

Taking Photos as Evidence

Make sure you take photos that can help you file your claim. Start by taking photos of the accident scene. With photos of the scene, you can show signs of negligence. Then, take photos of the damage to all vehicles, including their positions, that can show how a crash occurred. Finally, take pictures of your visible injuries that occurred in the crash. All photos can help you file a claim.

Getting Medical Treatment

Finally, ensure you put your health first. Whether you go to the emergency room or see a paramedic at the accident scene, it’s vital to get medical treatment. Not only can you start your physical recovery, but you can also get a medical record that helps you during your claim. Be sure to keep all medical bills as they play a role in your compensation.

If you suffer an injury because of someone else’s negligence, it’s vital to protect your rights. Insurance adjusters want to protect their profits first and foremost. They might attempt to take advantage of your vulnerable situation.

Our West Virginia car accident lawyers at Warner Law Offices, PLLC prioritize your best interests. We stand in your corner and pursue maximum compensation because we know how essential it is for you. We give you a voice, standing up to large corporations who make challenging situations even more difficult to endure. Let us be there for you, too!

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Attorney Bobby Warner
Content Reviewed by:
Bobby Warner

Bobby has received many accolades throughout the years from both his peers in the legal community, as well as the media. The National Trial Lawyers association named Bobby a Top 100 Trial Lawyer and he has been selected as a Member of the Nation’s Top One Percent. Additionally, he has been named a Best Attorneys of America by Rue Ratings, which also named Warner Law Offices to its Best Law Firms of America.