Milwaukee, Wisconsin Car Accident Lawyer
Car Accident Do's and Don'ts
Car accidents can be traumatic and overwhelming experiences, and it is easy to make a mistake in the moments following your accident which may damage your potential claim for compensation. Therefore, it is important to take certain steps following your car accident to protect your rights.
The following list of “do’s and don’ts” will be very helpful immediately following a car accident, and they will ensure that you do not jeopardize the success of your claim.
What to Do Following a Car Accident
DO:
- Call the police – The police will evaluate the accident scene and fill out a report which identifies the driver they believe to be at fault. This report can be very important when you file your car accident claim.
- Take down the other driver’s information – Always exchange the following information with the other driver(s) involved in the car accident:
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance information
- Year, make, and model of the vehicle
- Vehicle registration information
- Document the accident scene – Take pictures of the accident scene, any damage to your vehicle and damage to the other driver’s vehicle. Record the contact information of any witnesses at the scene.
- Seek medical attention immediately – This should be your top priority after your car accident. Often, injuries take days, weeks, or even months to appear. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention even if you do not think you are badly hurt. Otherwise, the insurance company may try to claim these injuries were not caused by the accident and deny you compensation for them.
- Call your insurance company as soon as possible – You are required to notify your insurance company immediately when you are involved in a car accident. You should be truthful and honest regarding the events of the accident, but do not admit fault. However, do not discuss the accident or make any statements to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney.
- Contact an experienced car accident lawyer – An experienced car accident lawyer can deal with the insurance companies for you to ensure your rights are protected and you receive a fair settlement offer.
What to Avoid Following a Car Accident
DON’T:
- Admit fault – Never admit fault for the car accident. This may prevent you from receiving the compensation you deserve.
- Leave the scene – You are legally required to remain at the scene of the accident. If you leave the scene right away, you may face criminal penalties, and your ability to recover the compensation you deserve may be jeopardized.
- Sign anything without first talking to an attorney – Never sign any papers, waivers, or releases from your insurance company or the other driver’s insurance company without first talking to a lawyer. Often, these documents can reduce the amount of compensation you are entitled to receive.
If you have been injured in a car accident in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area, please contact the Milwaukee auto accident attorneys at The Cochran Firm Wisconsin today to schedule your free initial consultation.
|
