Connecticut Personal Injury Lawyers Blog
Critical decisions need to be made in the moments after a car accident. Who you call could make all the difference.
1. Call the Police
It is important to call the police right away if a motor vehicle accident has left anyone injured or property damaged. It does not matter how significant the injury or property damage is; you must call the police even if the damage is only a minor scratch. Per Connecticut state law, you must report the incident to the police as soon as possible.
2. Call Your Doctor
Immediately following an accident, adrenaline in your veins can act as a “pain mute button” causing you to not realize that you are injured. You may even refuse medical attention if there are no outward signs of injury. Oftentimes, however, late-onset injuries present themselves. Therefore, as soon as possible after being involved in an accident, you should visit a doctor. Make an appointment within 72 hours after the occurrence. Early medical intervention and/or treatment will make it easier to file an insurance claim and can be used if you pursue legal action. Also, keep copies of all medical bills, doctor’s reports and other related documentation.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Make sure to contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the collision. If you do not get in touch with your insurance provider, it could affect how your claim is handled.
To help with your claim, make sure you gather the other driver’s information—including their name, contact details, insurance company, policy number and driver’s license number. Ask witnesses for their names and contact details. Witnesses can be pedestrians, other motorists or passengers. However, when speaking with your insurance company, make sure to inform the representative that you do not want the conversation recorded as that can be used against you at a later time.
4. Contact a Connecticut Personal Injury Lawyer
Insurance companies have a financial incentive to pay your claim(s) for as little as possible. They are not in the business of ensuring that all of your financial, physical, emotional, and medical needs are met. To obtain the best outcome for your insurance claims, it is essential to protect your legal rights. At Hirsch Andrade, our experienced car accident attorneys can help with your case and answer any questions you may have. If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contact Hirsch Andrade online or call us at (203) 331-8888.