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What Happens After a Car Accident That is Not Your Fault?
Millions of people in the United States are sent to the emergency room because of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. Car accident injuries can cause pain, emotional distress, loss of work, and other complications for a long time after the accident takes place. Recovering from these injuries often requires medical treatment, ongoing care, and support. Being involved in an accident can stall your life and set you back financially for a long time.
A car accident can occur anywhere, anytime, and to anyone. It’s important to know what to do after an accident–especially one that isn’t your fault.
This guide will outline the steps you can take to ensure you get the compensation you deserve after being involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault. You’ll learn how to protect yourself and receive a fair settlement to support your recovery. To learn more about what to do after an accident that wasn’t your fault, reach out to the expert legal team at Lampert and Walsh today.
What Should I Do After an Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?
Being involved in a car accident is highly stressful, and it can be tough to remember what you should do immediately. It may be helpful to make a list of steps to take and keep it in your car so you’ll be prepared if you are in an accident.
Immediately after the accident
Your first step must be ensuring your own safety after an accident. Take these precautions immediately after an accident:
- Move your vehicle to the side of the road if it’s safe to do so
- Call 911 to report any injuries–yours or anyone else involved in the accident
- Contact the local police to report the accident
Taking these precautions means you will be safe, and your vehicle will be less likely to sustain more damage.
Collect information
If the accident was not your fault, you will need evidence supporting this as you proceed with a lawsuit or insurance claim. Obtain as much information as possible, including:
- The name, address, driver’s license and license plate number, and telephone number of all others involved in the accident
- Names and contact information of witnesses, including other passengers
- Photos of damage to your car, other cars involved, and the scene of the accident
- Contact information of the police officers at the scene
- A copy of the accident from the report, if available
As time passes, collecting this information will become more challenging. Gather as much as possible at the scene to save time and energy later.
Visit a doctor
Some injuries can develop after some time, even if you do not feel pain or notice anything immediately after the accident. Get a comprehensive medical exam so that your doctor can identify any underlying problems and provide timely treatment. Having documentation of your injuries will support any claims you make later.
Find a lawyer
Medical bills, time away from work, and emotional distress can pile up after an accident. You are entitled to compensation that will help you get the treatment you need and continue to pay your bills while you’re unable to work. A personal injury lawyer will work to get you the compensation you deserve.
Find a Denver Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle or car accident that wasn’t your fault, you need a lawyer who will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Don’t let an accident derail your life. Find an expert Denver motorcycle accident attorney by contacting the team at Lampert and Walsh today.