What To Do After a Car Wreck
Knowing what to do after a car wreck could make the difference between being short-changed by the insurance company and obtaining the maximum compensation you deserve. Unfortunately, many people receive far less than they deserve because they don’t know what steps to take after a crash.
Roberts Wilson, P.A. has helped clients across Mississippi for years. Our experienced car accident lawyers have built a reputation for excellence in a wide range of auto accident and injury cases. We have the knowledge, skills, and resources you need to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
If you are wondering what to do after a car wreck, consider taking the following steps.
1. Make Sure Everyone at the Scene Is Okay
After any vehicle collision, your top priority should be the safety and well-being of everyone involved. Check yourself and your passengers for any signs of injury. If it is safe to do so, check on the driver and passengers of the other vehicle as well. If you discover injuries, inform the authorities when you call 911.
Do not apologize to anyone. Insurance companies – and others involved – often consider apologies as an admission of guilt.
2. Call 911
Once you have checked for injuries, call 911. Under Mississippi Code section 63-3-411, drivers must immediately report wrecks they are involved in by the “quickest means of communication,” if the accident:
- Resulted in injury to or death of any person, or
- Resulted in total property damage to an apparent extent of $500 or more
Not only do you fulfill your legal obligation by contacting the police after a serious crash, but a police report can be an important piece of evidence when establishing liability in your car accident case.
3. Cooperate with Law Enforcement
In the immediate aftermath of a crash, it can be difficult to know exactly what happened and who was to blame. Accidents happen very quickly and can involve numerous contributing factors. You need to avoid saying anything that may place the blame on you. It’s very easy to slip up and say something that could incriminate you.
Be respectful when responding to officers at the scene. Keep your answers brief and to the point.
We recognize that there are instances where a person who has been in an accident might need to seek advice from a criminal defense attorney before cooperating with law enforcement. If you believe you may be charged with a crime, we recommend you seek counsel before communicating with law enforcement or anyone else.
Many innocent people (or individuals who perceive themselves to be innocent) assume that being quiet gives authorities the impression of guilt. This is not true. Police understand that you have the right to be silent.
4. Seek Medical Care for Injuries as Soon as Possible
In some cases, the need for immediate medical care is obvious. However, even if your injuries don’t seem severe at the time of the crash, it is still a good idea to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries – like brain injuries and spinal cord injuries – can take days, or even weeks, to fully manifest. Not only is seeing a doctor right away good for your health and well-being, but medical records can be crucial pieces of evidence when seeking compensation in a car accident claim.
Additionally, failing to visit with a doctor promptly after a crash can send a message that you were not concerned about your injuries at the time of the wreck. This could have an adverse impact on your claim.
5. Do Not Give a Recorded Statement to an Insurance Company Without Counsel
Even if the accident wasn’t your fault, you will need to notify your insurance company about the collision. It is important to alert your insurer within the timeframe specified in your insurance policy. Be honest when speaking with your insurance company, but be mindful of what you discuss. Do not admit fault and refrain from offering a statement until you have spoken with a lawyer.
Do not speak with the insurance company of the other driver.
6. Call a Car Accident Lawyer at Roberts Wilson, P.A.
Although you might not know what to do after a car wreck, the knowledgeable attorneys at Roberts Wilson know exactly what to do to protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. We will handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on healing. Our attorney will investigate the crash, gather evidence to support your claim, and help you pursue the full and fair compensation to which you may be entitled under the law.
In the chaos and confusion of a car accident scene, it may not be easy to remember what to do and whom to call. Because of this, it’s a good idea to add Roberts Wilson, P.A. to your phone’s contact list right now.
Speak With a North Mississippi Car Accident Lawyer for FREE
The immediate aftermath of a car accident can be frightening. You may not know where to turn or how to proceed. It’s understandable that you may not know what to do after a car wreck. That’s why our experienced car accident lawyers are standing by to help. If you were hurt in a crash, call our office now.
Contact Roberts Wilson, P.A. today online or at (662) 533-9111 for a FREE case evaluation. We proudly serve clients in Oxford, Holly Springs, Batesville, Pontotoc, Desoto & Tate counties, and other areas throughout Mississippi and beyond.
