Car accidents are never fun, and dealing with the legal aftermath can be just as stressful as the crash itself. If you’ve been in an accident, you might be unsure of what to do next.
But don’t worry, this guide will walk you through your rights as a car accident victim in the US.
We’ll cover everything from what to do at the scene of the accident to how to deal with insurance companies and when you might need to get a St. Petersburg car accident lawyer involved.
Immediate Steps After an Accident
The moments after a car accident can be scary and confusing. So, let’s move to the essential steps you should take.
Check for Injuries: Safety First
Before you do anything else, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if you don’t feel any pain right away, it’s still a good idea to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.
Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, might not show up right away.
Move to Safety
If you can, move your car to a safe location away from traffic. This will prevent further accidents and help keep you and your passengers safe.
Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If it’s not safe to move your vehicle, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
Call the Police
Even if the car accident in St. Petersburg seems minor, it’s always best to call the police. They’ll create an official report of the accident, which can be important evidence later on.
The police report will include details like the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as any witness statements or observations made by the responding officers.
Exchange Information
While you’re waiting for the police to arrive, exchange information with the other drivers involved. This includes.
- Full names
- Contact information (phone numbers and addresses)
- Insurance information (company name, policy number)
- Vehicle information (make, model, license plate number)
If there are any witnesses, get their names and contact information as well. Their statements can be valuable in proving who was at fault.
Document the Scene
If you have a smartphone or camera handy, take pictures of the accident scene from different angles. This includes.
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- Skid marks or other evidence on the road
- Traffic signs or signals
- Any visible injuries you or your passengers sustained
These photos can be used as evidence to support your claim.
Notify Your Insurance Company
As soon as possible, report the accident to your insurance company. They’ll need information about the accident, the other drivers involved, and any injuries or damages.
Be honest and accurate in your report, but avoid admitting fault or speculating about what happened.
By taking these steps after a car accident, you’re not only protecting your health and safety, but also preserving important evidence that could be crucial in a legal case or insurance claim.
Remember, staying calm and taking action can make a big difference in the outcome of your situation.
Your Right to Compensation: What You Can Claim After the Crash
After a car accident, especially a serious one, you’re probably dealing with a whole lot of stress. Medical bills, car repairs, maybe even missed work – it all adds up. But here’s the good news — if the accident wasn’t your fault, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses.
Let’s discuss what that means.
Two Types of Damages
Compensation in a car accident case usually falls into two categories.
Economic Damages
These are the tangible costs you’ve incurred because of the accident. This includes.
- Medical Bills: Hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, medication, physical therapy — all of it.
- Lost Wages: If you had to miss work due to your injuries, you can claim the income you lost.
- Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace your car, as well as any other property damaged in the accident (like your phone or personal belongings).
Non-Economic Damages
These are harder to put a price tag on, but they’re just as important. They include.
- Pain and Suffering: This covers the physical pain and discomfort you’ve experienced due to your injuries.
- Emotional Distress: If the accident has caused you anxiety, depression, or other emotional problems, you can seek compensation for that too.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: This covers things you can no longer do or enjoy because of the accident, like hobbies, activities, or spending time with loved ones.
When to Hire a Lawyer
After a car accident, you might be wondering if you really need a lawyer. Sometimes, if the accident is minor and there are no injuries, you might be able to handle the insurance claim yourself. But in many cases, having an expert auto injury attorney on your side can make a huge difference.
Here’s when it’s especially important to get a lawyer involved.
- Serious Injuries: If you or someone else was seriously hurt in the accident, a lawyer can help you get the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
- Disputes Over Fault: If the other driver is blaming you for the accident, or if there’s confusion about who’s at fault, a lawyer can investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
- Complex Insurance Claims: Dealing with insurance companies is a real headache. A lawyer can handle the paperwork, negotiate with the insurance adjuster, and make sure you’re not being lowballed on your settlement.
- Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers: If the other driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough to cover your damages, a lawyer can help you explore other options for getting compensated, such as through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Legal Proceedings: If your case goes to court, you’ll definitely want a lawyer to represent you. They understand the legal process and can fight for your rights in court.
Final Thoughts
Car accidents are never easy, and understanding your rights is confusing. But remember, you’re not alone in this. There are resources and people who can help you through this tough time.
Whether it’s knowing what to do at the scene or figuring out how to get compensated for your losses, knowledge is your best friend.
So, if you’re unsure of where to start, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted car accident lawyer. They can help you understand your options and make sure you’re treated fairly. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and get the help you need to move forward.
Keep an eye for more news & updates on My Stories List!
Eamon