What Should I Do When I’m In An Accident To Ensure I Am Compensated Fairly?

Dealing with the aftershock of a car accident can be challenging, especially if you were injured in the accident. In the days following, you will have to talk to an insurance adjuster about compensation for any vehicle damages, personal injuries, and/or income lost due to your car accident and injuries—but how do you seek the compensation you truly need?

Here are 4 helpful tips to pursue the compensation you require after a car wreck:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

When you’re in a car accident, adrenaline is released, which allows your body and mind to be more alert and deal with the trauma of the accident. Fortunately and unfortunately, your body’s natural response to the trauma you’ve experienced can hide the after-effects of the accident—like pain. Because of this, pain may not be present until days to weeks after the accident. This is why it’s vital to see a doctor right away. If the accident is serious enough, you need to make sure any unknown injuries you sustained are not life-threatening or something that could worsen over time. 

Seeking immediate medical attention proves that you were concerned about being injured at the time of your accident and will create a written record of any medical evaluations, diagnosis, or treatment plans, which can all help with your claim.

2. Start Your Claim As Soon As Possible

After seeking medical attention, be sure to file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. This makes it easier to recall the important details of your accident. However, be warned that you do need to be mindful of what you say over the phone because anything you say can be used against you if you do decide to settle your claim in court. If you need help talking to your insurance company about your claim, it’s always a good idea to ask a lawyer BEFORE you call.

3. Keep Detailed Records About The Accident

When you’re in the midst of a personal injury settlement, keeping an accurate and chronological file of your accident details can help move your settlement along. This file should include documents like police reports, any medical evaluations, records of doctor’s visits, and anything applicable to your accident. So channel your inner Monica Geller and get organized.

4. Know When To Hire A Good Attorney

If you’re not able to come to a fair settlement with your insurance company, it may be time to hire an accident attorney. The job of insurance companies is to make a profit, and they do that by offering you the lowest possible settlement amount. An experienced lawyer will have the education and experience necessary to fight on your behalf and get the settlement amount you need and deserve.

Conclusion

Unexpected accidents can result in huge life changes. These traumatic events can shake your world and bring about challenges to your health, mental state, and finances—but you should know that you’re not alone. Our personal injury attorneys here at the Hammack Law Firm in Greenville, SC are confident in our ability to help get you back on your feet after a tragic accident. We will fight on your behalf! Give us a call or fill out our website form if you have been in a car wreck in the Upstate of South Carolina. Our team is here to serve you!