When you’re involved in a car accident caused by someone else, it’s often difficult to figure out what to do next. Unfortunately, the things that you say and do in the days and weeks after a serious crash can have an impact on how much you ultimately recover from the insurance company. Here are four things you can to do to protect your rights in the aftermath of a wreck. For more information, call Bice Law today to schedule a free consultation with a South Carolina car accident attorney.
Collect Information
If you’re able to do so, you should collect information about the way in which your accident occurred. Of course, never refuse medical treatment or ignore your injuries in order to do any of the following. Take pictures of the aftermath of the accident, and document things like:
- The other driver’s name and insurance information
- Any road conditions that you think may have contributed to the crash
- Any damage to the other vehicle that may have existed before the accident
- Contact information from eyewitnesses
See a Doctor, and Fully Engage in Medical Treatment
You should always see a doctor for a full medical evaluation after an accident, even you were cleared to go home by emergency medical personnel or you do not think that your injuries are that serious. In order to obtain compensation from an insurance company, you need to be able to provide documentation of your injuries – which is much, much easier when you have an official medical record. In addition, follow all of your doctor’s recommendations regarding follow-up care and treatment. If you don’t, you can give the insurance company an opportunity to argue that you are not as hurt as you claim to be.
Do NOT Accept a Settlement without Talking to a Lawyer
One tactic (of many) that insurance companies use to limit their liability is to offer victims a lowball settlement offer before they get a chance to talk to a lawyer. NEVER accept an offer before speaking with an attorney – as once you accept one, it’s nearly impossible to recover more compensation.
Call an Attorney as Soon as You Can after an Accident
Finally, you should call a lawyer as soon as you can after you’ve been injured in a car wreck. If you wait, you risk the loss or destruction of evidence critical to the success of your case. In addition, the sooner you’re represented by counsel, the sooner you can start focusing on the most critical part of the aftermath of an accident – your emotional and physical healing.
Call Bice Law Today to Schedule a Free Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer in South Carolina
A serious car accident can leave victims with substantial losses, including medical bills, lost income, lost quality of life, and significant physical and emotional pain and suffering. At Bice Law, we are dedicated to helping our clients get the compensation they deserve and are will never back down to large insurance companies. To schedule a free case evaluation with attorney Justin Bice, call our office today at 803-639-8777 or contact us online.