What Do I Do After an Accident?
Car accidents can be sudden and traumatic. One minute you’re driving normally, and the next minute, everything changes. After a crash caused by another driver’s negligence or recklessness, you may not know what steps to take next, and you may feel overwhelmed at the prospect of fighting it out alone with the insurance companies. Instead, focus on your and your family’s health and recuperation, and allow our seasoned and compassionate attorneys to assist you in receiving what you’re owed after your Indiana car accident. Our lawyers at Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP have been helping clients in the Indianapolis area receive full compensation for their injuries for over 30 years. Read below for tips on what to do after an accident, and contact our office for a free consultation on your possible car accident lawsuit.
Document the scene of the accident, and speak to any potential witnesses
There are several steps you should take immediately after a crash, once you’re safe and out of the road:
- Take photos of the position of the cars involved, and the damage done to each car.
- Speak with anyone standing nearby to ask if they witnessed the crash, and try to get their contact information.
- If the accident is serious, call the police. You’re required to report any accident where the damage seems as though it might be worth over $1000, and your insurer will want to see the police report. Plus, an official record of events can help support your claim that the other driver was at fault.
Report the accident to your insurer, but don’t be quick to settle
Report the accident to your insurer quickly after a crash, but don’t jump at settlement offers. After an accident, you may need cash fast to cover mounting expenses or lost wages from missing work. While it may be tempting to take the first amount that an insurance company offers you for your injuries, they’re probably not offering you everything you’re owed. If you’ve been seriously hurt, it can be difficult to predict whether your medical and rehabilitative expenses may continue into the future without an expert’s evaluation of your injuries. The insurer wants to settle your claims before you realize that you may be entitled to more. Don’t let them off that easy. Speak with an experienced car accident attorney, who can give you an accurate valuation of your claims and go to bat for you in negotiating a better settlement or obtaining an award at trial.
Experienced Legal Representation from Dedicated Indianapolis Car Accident Attorneys
If you have been injured in a crash that was someone else’s fault, you’re entitled to money to cover any lost wages, medical expenses, property damage, or pain and suffering you experienced in the crash. Don’t try to go toe-to-toe with giant insurance companies by yourself—seek experienced legal counsel to do the job for you. For help with car and truck accident claims in Indiana, contact Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP for a free consultation on your case, at 317-631-5151.