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Health-affecting Road Accident: 4 Legal Tips to Help You Handle it

Mitch Avatar By: Mitch | Last updated August 31, 2022

honda civic in a car accident


Introduction

No one wants to be in a road accident, but it's essential to know what to do when it happens. After a road accident that significantly affects your health, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. Here are four legal tips to help you get through this difficult time.

rear quarter panel car accident

Get medical attention immediately

After a road accident, the first thing you need to do is to seek medical attention. The seasoned legal practitioners behind a reputable car crash law firm suggest that you should still see a doctor even if you don't think you're seriously injured. This is because some injuries may not present themselves immediately; instead, it takes several days for your injuries to show. That's why getting a medical assessment as soon as possible after the accident is crucial so that any injuries can be appropriately diagnosed and treated.

If you fail to see a doctor within 14 days of the accident, you may not be able to prove that it was the accident that caused your injuries. The reason is that the insurance company will argue that your injuries could have been caused by something other than the accident. There are also instances wherein the doctor who will check you will say that your injuries were caused by a pre-existing condition instead of the accident. This may happen when the medical professional is affiliated with the insurance company. To avoid this, it's best to see your doctor or go to the hospital right after the accident.

Contact an attorney

Next, contact an experienced car accident attorney. A legal practitioner can help you through the complex legal process and ensure your rights are protected. They will also be able to help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. What you will get will depend on the severity of your injuries, how long it will take you to recover, and other factors. For instance, if you sustained a permanent disability due to the accident, you may be entitled to more compensation than if your injuries were not as severe.

Once you've contacted an attorney, they will handle all communications with the insurance company on your behalf. You should not give a statement to the insurance company without first consulting with an attorney. This is because anything you say can be used against you. For instance, if you tell the insurance company that you're not seriously injured, they may use that statement to deny your claim or reduce the amount of compensation you're entitled to. An experienced car accident attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. 

In choosing a lawyer to work with, it's essential to choose someone with experience handling car accident cases. You should also ensure they have a good track record of winning cases and getting their clients the compensation they deserve. Search for car accident lawyers online. You can also read reviews of lawyers to get an idea of their experience and success rate. Often, the best lawyers will offer a free consultation, so you can decide whether or not to hire them. Just make sure that you're comfortable with the lawyer you choose and that they have experience handling cases like yours.

Document everything related to the accident

All documentation related to the accident will be necessary in building your case. This includes the police report, medical records, and other documentation. Organize the copies of these documents in your records. You should also give copies of these documents to your attorney. Your attorney will use this documentation to build a strong case on your behalf. The insurance company will also use this documentation to determine the amount of compensation you're entitled to. That's why it's essential to ensure that all documentation is accurate and complete.

The police report is critical because it will contain information about the other driver, such as their name, contact information, and insurance information. It will also contain information about what happened during the accident. This includes a description of the accident scene and any citations issued. The medical records are also vital because they document the injuries you sustained in the accident. Hence, you should keep a record of your injuries and recovery. This includes doctors' visits, hospital stays, missed work, and any other impacts the accident has had on your life. This documentation will prove the extent of your injuries and how long it took you to recover.

Keep track of your expenses

Last but not least, you should keep track of all the expenses you incur due to the accident. This includes medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other out-of-pocket costs. You'll need this documentation to prove the financial impact the accident has had on your life. For instance, your medical bills will be important in establishing the severity of your injuries. Your lost wages will be important in proving the financial impact the accident has had on your life. 

Additionally, don't wait too long before filing a claim because there is usually a statute of limitations. This means you have a certain amount of time to file a claim after the accident. Waiting too long may hinder you from filing a claim. So, start filing your claim as soon as possible. This way, there is a greater possibility that you can get your compensation.

red car that has crashed into a ditch

If you encounter a car accident, you must know what to do afterward. These four tips will help you handle a health-affecting road accident the best way possible. By following these tips, you'll be in a better position to get the compensation you deserve.

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