Serious Accident - Things to do list:
Posted by
Lauren EllermanDecember 13, 2007 10:34 AMGod willing, you will never be in a serious car accident. God willing, no one you know will ever be in a serious car accident. BUT, if you are, here are some important tips:
1. Go to the hospital right away. A jury will think something is up if you wait a week or two - so go, just in case there is something wrong.
2. Notify your insurance company - AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
3. Do not give tape-recorded or written statements to the other carrier without seeking advice of counsel.
4. Have someone go to the scene and take photos - under same weather conditions, same time of day. Digital photos are the best these days and can be used later on in Court presentations, etc.
5. Have someone take photos of yourself if injuries are apparent.
6. Take photos of both cars.
7. Contact witnesses or better yet, have your attorney contact them while the accident is fresh in their memory, and get written statements, or Affidavits signed.
8. Attend any traffic / criminal hearings - even if the charges are against the other side.
9. Notify the prosecuting attorney of your presence, if you attend the hearing.
10. Be organized - keep bills, doctors names, appointment information, journal of injuries etc - and give all of that to your attorney!
For more information on this subject, please refer to the section on Car and Motorcycle Accidents.