Legal Steps Following A Car Collision

Being involved in a car crash is unsettling, no matter the circumstances. In the aftermath, it’s important to know what to do—not just for your safety and well-being, but also to support any potential legal action. Below, our colleagues at Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC outline the steps that can make a difference in the outcome of your case.

Prioritize Health And Safety First

After a collision, check yourself and others for injuries. If medical attention is needed, call emergency services right away. Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, consider seeking care—some injuries can take hours or even days to surface. Medical records from the first moments after a crash can also help establish a link between the accident and any resulting injuries, which can be important in your legal case.

Contact Law Enforcement And Document The Scene

Once everyone is safe, contact the police. A formal accident report can be helpful when working with insurance companies or if legal action becomes necessary. While you wait for officers to arrive, use your phone to document the scene. Take photos of vehicle damage, the road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. These details can support your claim later.

Exchange Information, But Stay Cautious

Collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved. If there are witnesses, get their names and phone numbers too. Avoid discussing fault or giving opinions about what happened. These statements can sometimes be used out of context later.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurer promptly to begin the claims process. Be accurate and stick to the facts. Insurance companies may try to settle quickly, sometimes before you know the full extent of your injuries or damages. Take your time before agreeing to any resolution.

Contact A Legal Professional

While not every accident leads to legal action, it’s wise to speak with someone who handles car crash cases regularly. A car accident lawyer can review the facts and help determine what next steps may benefit your situation. Even seemingly minor accidents can involve legal issues related to insurance coverage, liability, or long-term health problems.

Long-Term Considerations

In some cases, a collision may result in ongoing treatment, lost wages, or reduced earning capacity. These are all factors that a motor vehicle lawyer can help quantify in a legal claim. Without proper representation, you might miss out on compensation for long-term effects that aren’t obvious right away.

If the other party was distracted, impaired, or failed to follow traffic laws, a vehicle collision lawyer can investigate further. Establishing responsibility often requires reviewing more than just the accident report—it might involve camera footage, cell phone records, or accident reconstruction.

How A Lawyer Can Help

Car accidents can create more than just physical damage—they bring financial and emotional stress too. While you can’t undo what happened, you can take clear steps that make the process easier to manage. If you have questions, contact a car wreck attorney at a full-service law firm today. Legal professionals who can guide you through the legal process can offer more than just advice—they can lead to stronger outcomes and peace of mind.