What Should You Do After an Accident?
Taking Steps to Protect Your Interests
When you are in an auto accident, it is easy to panic. You may not consider the consequences of making simple statements to the other driver or people in the area. However, it is important for you to know that the actions you take immediately after an accident can greatly affect how an insurance company treats your claims.
At Shepard & Haven, we are passionate about protecting the rights of people injured in accidents on California roadways. Our attorneys each have more than 35 years of legal experience, and both formerly worked for insurance companies. That experience gives our firm insight into how insurers operate, and allows us to fight them successfully for our clients.
To arrange a free consultation to discuss your needs with an experienced Sacramento personal injury lawyer, please call 916-877-9443 or toll free 866-986-1510. You can also contact our Sacramento law firm online.
Steps You Should Take After an Accident
1. Be careful what you say to any insurance adjuster. It is quite possible to say things that, though honest and well-intentioned, can harm your legal case. Even a simple "I'm sorry" to the other driver can be taken as an admission of fault, jeopardizing your claim.
2. Collect information from other drivers and witnesses: Exchanging insurance information with the other driver and getting the names, phone numbers and addresses of witnesses is important. Witnesses' memories fade, so having a record is very useful.
3. Take pictures: Accident scenes are cleaned up quickly, often before you have time to get in touch with your attorney. If possible, you should take pictures of the cars, the scene and your injuries.
4. Get medical treatment: Your health is the most important thing. You should seek the medical care that you need. Do not wait. Just make sure that you document the types of treatment you receive and keep a record of the bills.
5. Talk to our experienced lawyers: You should not deal with insurance companies on your own. By hiring a skilled attorney, you will have someone there to analyze the police report, investigate the accident and hire the experts needed to build a case for full compensation.
Contact Shepard & Haven • 916-877-9443 or Toll Free at 866-986-1510
When you have questions about dealing with insurance companies, we have answers. To arrange a free initial consultation with our experienced California attorneys, call us or contact our law firm online.
