What To Do After A Car Accident Injury

Step 1: Seek medical treatment

The first and most crucial step after sustaining a car accident injury is to seek immediate medical attention. Even if injuries may seem minor or not immediately apparent, it is important to get evaluated by a medical doctor who can accurately assess and document your condition. 

Delaying or avoiding medical treatment can worsen injuries and weaken any future personal injury claim. Always prioritize your health and well-being by seeking prompt medical care after a car accident injury.

Step 2: Follow all medical advice

Following all medical advice is an important step in the recovery process after a car accident injury. This includes attending all follow-up appointments, taking prescribed medications, and following any rehabilitation or therapy plans recommended by healthcare professionals. 

By adhering to their instructions, you not only prioritize your own healing but also establish a strong record of compliance that can strengthen your personal injury claim. Additionally, fully following medical advice can contribute to a smoother recovery and reduce the long-term effects of your injuries.

Step 3: Document expenses

Documenting expenses related to your car accident injury is crucial for accurately calculating damages and seeking fair compensation. Keep detailed records of the following:

• All medical bills
• Prescription costs
• Therapy or rehabilitation expenses
• Transportation costs for doctor visits
• Lost wages from not being able to work
• Any other out-of-pocket expenses directly linked to your injuries 

Retain receipts, invoices, medical reports, and any other relevant documents that substantiate these costs. This documentation will provide strong evidence when negotiating a settlement with insurance companies or presenting your case in court if necessary. The more comprehensive and organized your expense documentation is, the better your chance of recovering the full compensation you deserve.

Step 4: Be careful who you speak to and what you say

Being cautious about who you speak to and what you say is crucial after a car accident injury. Avoid discussing the accident or your injuries with anyone other than your healthcare providers and trusted legal professionals. 

Be careful when talking to your insurance company, the other party involved in the accident, and their insurance adjusters. Insurance companies and adjusters will use various tactics to hurt your claim, resulting in lower payouts. 

Additionally, you should avoid posting anything about the accident or your injuries on social media platforms. Anything you say can be used against you later on during settlement negotiations or in court. It’s best to consult with your car accident attorney for guidance on communicating effectively while protecting your rights and interests.

Step 5: Consult with a personal injury attorney early on

Consulting with a personal injury attorney in Colorado after a car accident injury is highly recommended. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the entire process, ensuring that you take the necessary steps to protect your rights and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation. 

They will help you understand your legal options, gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, negotiate settlements, or represent you in court if needed. By seeking legal counsel as soon as possible, you can navigate the complexities of personal injury law with confidence and peace of mind, knowing that a knowledgeable professional is representing your best interests.

How can an experienced car accident injury lawyer help you?

There are several advantages of obtaining assistance with your Colorado car accident injury claim from a car accident injury lawyer, as follows: 

• Legal expertise: An experienced car accident injury lawyer has in-depth knowledge of personal injury laws and procedures. They understand the complexities of insurance claims, legal deadlines, and court requirements, guiding you through the process.
• Protection of rights: Your attorney will ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. They will handle all communication with insurance companies, defense lawyers, and other parties involved to prevent any statements or actions that could harm your case.
• Investigation and evidence gathering: A skilled attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident. This includes collecting evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and surveillance footage to strengthen your case.
• Accurate case valuation: Your lawyer can assess the true value of your claim by considering various factors such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to maximize compensation explicitly tailored to your circumstances.
• Negotiation skills: Insurance companies often try to settle for less than what you deserve. With their negotiation skills and experience in dealing with insurance adjusters, an attorney can advocate for fair compensation while protecting your best interests.
• Trial representation: If settlement negotiations fail or filing a lawsuit becomes necessary due to an unfair settlement offer or liability disputes, an attorney will represent you in court. They have the trial experience required to present a compelling case before a judge or jury.
• Allows you to focus on healing: Hiring an experienced car accident injury lawyer helps alleviate much of the stress associated with navigating through legal proceedings, allowing you to concentrate on your recovery.

How much does a personal injury attorney cost?

The costs of hiring a personal injury attorney can vary depending on several factors, including the attorney’s experience, reputation, and location. Different attorneys also have various fee structures.

Most Colorado personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means they don’t charge any upfront fees for their services but instead take a percentage of the settlement or award you receive if your case succeeds. 

Other attorneys may charge an hourly rate or ask for a retainer upfront before taking on your case. In such situations, you would be responsible for paying them based on the hours worked and expenses incurred throughout the duration of your case.

Before officially engaging their services, it’s essential to clarify all fee arrangements and understand any additional costs involved in working with a personal injury attorney. Many lawyers offer free initial consultations where you can discuss these matters and gain clarity about their fee structure.

Call the experienced injury attorneys at Bachus & Schanker

Call the experienced Colorado injury attorneys at Bachus & Schanker today to protect your rights and seek fair compensation for your car accident injury. Our dedicated team is ready to provide you with expert legal representation, guide you through what to do after a car accident injury, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Sources:

Fees and Expenses. (2020).

Lee, C. Do I Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?

Three Reasons to See a Doctor After an Auto Accident. (2021).