Step One: Is Everyone OKAY after the Car Accident?
First, make sure you and your passengers are okay. If not, call for medical help as soon as possible. Stop your car at or near the scene of the accident. If possible move the car off the road so traffic is not blocked. Activate your hazard warning signals. Do not leave the scene, especially if someone has been hurt or killed. You may face criminal charges and could be charged as a hit and run driver.
Call 911 to Report your MO Car Accident
If there is significant damage to the vehicle or surrounding property, physical injury or death call the police or 911 immediately to report the accident. Ask for a copy of the police report that will be filed. Make note of the name and badge numbers of the police officers. Tell the truth about what happened and the extent of your injuries.
Word Statements Carefully: Car Accident Lawyer Tips
Do not admit fault. By apologizing or admitting it was your fault you may be admitting legal liability for what happened. It may not be clear who was at fault so it’s best not to discuss the accident with anyone other than the police or your lawyer. Exchange information with the other parties involved as soon as possible. Get all important information such as names, addresses, telephone numbers, driver’s license, registration and insurance details. If there are any witnesses get their names and addresses also. Ask any local witnesses if the area is a site of recurring accidents.
Gather Evidence from the MO Car Accident Scene
After a car accident, it is wise to take pictures of any damage to your vehicle. Provide your insurance company or lawyer any before pictures so they can see the extent of damage to your car. This can prove useful if the case ends up in court.
Retain Counsel: St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers
If any party is injured in a collision, consider hiring an experienced attorney. An attorney will help you get a fair settlement if you are injured, or can defend you if you are at fault. Most attorneys do not charge a fee for a consultation. They work on a contingency fee basis. That means your lawyer will receive a fee only if you are awarded damages in a law suit or receive a settlement. The attorneys at The Bruning Law Firm have decades of experience handling collisions and will discuss your case with you at no cost.
Maintain Records: St. Louis Car Accident Attorneys
Sometimes injuries from an accident will not surface until after the accident. Keep a detailed record of all medical treatment and expenses occurred as a result of the collision. Request copies of all medical reports from all parties that you received treatment from as a result of the accident. Though medical expenses are easy to keep track of, proving pain and suffering is more difficult to prove. If your daily life and normal activities have been affected by the accident, make a record of that also.
Get a Second Opinion
Get a copy of the insurance company’s estimate of the damage. If you are not satisfied with their appraisal obtain your own independent repair quotes or replacement costs. If you and the insurance company cannot agree on the estimate, consider consulting with an attorney to discuss the best possible solution.
Listen To Expert Advice
Be wary of providing statements to insurance companies prior to speaking with an attorney. If the insurance company offers an early settlement make sure all your physical and mental injuries have been treated before you sign any documents. As stated previously, some injuries do not show up until later. Do not settle a claim until you are certain you will be compensated for all injuries sustained. Consult an attorney before signing any settlement documents with the insurance company.
To reach The Bruning Law Firm, click here or call 314-735-8100 to speak with one of our experienced St. Louis car accident attorneys.
LET US GET STARTED ON YOUR ST. LOUIS CAR ACCIDENT CASE TODAY
If you or someone you care about has been seriously injured in an auto accident, contact The Bruning Law Firm today. We provide the comprehensive, professional legal representation you deserve at a time when you need it most.
Call or contact our office online today to schedule a free consultation.
