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STEPS TO TAKE FOLLOWING A SERIOUS CAR ACCIDENT

Getting into a serious car accident is always a possibility when we operate a motor vehicle. There are few things more terrifying than an actual crash. The world seems to stop, the sound is ear-splitting, and then you begin to worry if anyone has been seriously injured.

Even though the event is mind-numbing, the moment following a serious accident is not the time to lose your head. There are several steps you should take as soon as possible, including:

GATHERING ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Your first priority should be getting treated for your injuries. Once that’s done, you should focus on collecting information. Gather the names, addresses, and phone numbers of any witnesses, passengers, and other drivers involved in your accident. These individuals can provide testimony in court, should you choose to file a claim against a negligent or reckless driver.

Hearing multiple sides of the story can also help clarify what actually happened — whether it be for insurance purposes, the courtroom or for your own peace of mind. If you are unable to collect this information at the scene, a police report should do the trick.

KEEPING COPIES OF YOUR MEDICAL RECORDS

The minute you meet with your doctor or another physician, make it clear that you want copies of all your records and receipts. These documents provide numbers and a paper trail that corresponds with the injuries you sustained from your serious car accident.

These documents answer questions like:

  • How much did you have to spend on medical care?
  • What prescriptions were you given?
  • How severe were your injuries?

Keeping detailed records of other monetary losses such as days of work missed, medical supplies, and physical therapy visits can also help.

STARTING A JOURNAL

As soon as you feel well enough, start writing down your thoughts and feelings in a journal. Creating a journal will provide a firsthand account of your pain and suffering. Because putting a numerical value to emotional trauma is very difficult, you should be as specific and clear as possible.

The more detailed your journal, the more a judge or jury will take the entries into account when deciding how much compensation to award you in a personal injury case.

CONSIDER FILING A PERSONAL INJURY LAWSUIT

If you believe a reckless or negligent driver was responsible for your serious car accident, you should consider filing a personal injury lawsuit. These lawsuits help provide compensation to victims who suffered an injury through no fault of their own.

You should never enter a legal battle alone. A local automobile accident attorney can help keep you organized and simplify the legal process. If your lawsuit is successful, you could recover compensation for your medical bills, loss of income, permanent disability, pain and suffering, and more.

CONTACT AN EXPERIENCED CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

Did a reckless or negligent driver injure you or a loved one in a serious car accident? You deserve compensation for your pain and suffering. Contact our experienced Phoenix auto accident attorneys at Miller Kory Rowe LLP by calling (602) 648-4045.