How to Handle the Aftermath of a Car Accident
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Contact your insurance company.
The first thing you’ll want to do after being in a car accident is to call your insurance company and let them know what happened. It’ll be a good idea to go over your current policy so you know what’s covered and what isn’t. In many cases, insurance companies will cover the cost of a rental car while your car is being fixed.
In other cases, when a car is deemed a total loss, they can cut you a check. Either way, you will need to file a claim. When making this call, have a notebook handy, and don’t forget to ask questions. Your insurance agent will be able to help you through the process. Additionally, ensure you have the police report with you. If your accident happened in Texas, you can access the TX police accident report online. Most insurance companies require this document to begin a claim.
Hire an attorney if you’ve had serious injuries.
Malliha Wilson, for example, is senior counsel in Canada. She’s devoted her career toward working as an administrative lawyer making changes in the Ontario government. After being in a car accident, you’ll need an experienced lawyer whose passion is for fair compensation the same way Wilson’s is human rights.
Start with a Google search for personal injury lawyers and ask your insurance company about any lawyers they’ll be working with. Having a special legal advisor on your side post-car wreck will help give you peace of mind and could add up to fewer worries about medical expenses and property damage and replacement. Most personal injury lawyers will meet with you for a free consultation. Should you chose to hire that attorney and become a litigant in a claim, they’ll be able to walk you through the legal process every step of the way.
Find a medical team you trust.
If you’ve been hurt, you’ll need a medical team you trust to help you through your recovery. The same way a cancer patient might have many appointments for something like infusion therapy, it’s likely you’ll be spending a lot of time with physical and occupational therapists.
Even if you began your recovery in a hospital setting, it’s okay to ask for a transfer and get a second opinion. Being comfortable with your health team is critical to a successful recovery.
Stay in close contact with your lawyer.
If you plan to file a lawsuit for serious injuries due to someone else’s negligence, it’s important that you save all paperwork including bills and medical expenses. This will help your attorney to advocate for you. As you make progress in your recovery, be sure to update your lawyer, too. The better you can communicate, the better they’ll be able to represent you.
At the end of the day, whether your car accident will mean you’re a future litigant in a lawsuit or that you’ll be struggling with side effects like PTSD or physical injuries, the best thing you can do after an accident is to make a plan.
From hiring an experienced lawyer with a law degree focused on personal injury to visiting a clinic to talk about treatment options for your injuries, it’s important to remind yourself that taking care of yourself should be a priority.
Do what you can to reach out to friends and family members as you navigate life after a car accident, and ask for help when needed. Down the road, after the shock’s worn off and you’re through recovery, things are bound to feel better. Best of luck in your recovery journey and any potential lawsuits.
