Car accidents are traumatic and can have overwhelming consequences. Such hapless accidents, rear-enders, and crashes are reported in Indiana all through the year. Following an auto accident in Fort Wayne, you may feel stress about your injuries, losses, and circumstances, especially if you were not at fault. If your injuries are severe, this may mean spending huge on medical bills and losing out on income. Consulting one of the top personal injury lawyers in Fort Wayne may help in understanding your options. Here is an overview of what you should do after an accident.
Call the local law enforcement
No matter who or what caused the accident, you must report the same. Indiana is a fault state, so if the other driver was responsible for the accident, they must pay compensation for your damages. If you don’t report the incident, their insurance company may use this against you. Do not let the other parties talk you out of calling the police. Note: DO NOT flee the scene. Pull over and check if others need help.
Get medical help (if needed)
In case someone was injured in the accident, or your injuries are severe, call 911 immediately. Sometimes, the impact of accident injuries may not be apparent right away. Injuries related to spinal cord, back, and neck, and whiplash, may cause problems later. Even if you feel okay, check with a reliable injury doctor, and do let them know that you were injured in a car accident.
Gather details
If you are conscious and feel okay, consider taking evidence from the accident site. Get info of other drivers and witnesses at the scene, including contact details. Also, take as many photographs of your injuries, damaged vehicles, and other things at the scene, as you can. This is critical evidence for bolstering your personal injury claim (if you have one).
Meet an attorney
Thanks to websites like Avvo, finding personal injury lawyers in Indiana doesn’t have to be complicated. Meet an attorney, so that you are aware of your rights and options. The attorney will determine the worth of your claim and negotiate with the insurance company, so that you get a fair settlement. If you don’t want to talk to the claims adjuster, your attorney can do the same.
Don’t delay in taking action after a car accident. If you want to file a personal injury lawsuit, you have limited time to do so, and important evidence may vanish soon.
