Important tips for car accident victims

I've helped accident victims for over thirty years. In fact, I've been in a few myself so I say this with experience - when you've just been in a car accident, your adrenaline is probably through the roof and it’s hard to think straight. That’s completely normal. Here’s a few tips to remember if it happens to you.

First, check for injuries

Your safety comes first. If anyone is hurt—even slightly—call 911 right away.

Do not leave the accident scene (only to the shoulder if you need to for safety)

Especially on busy roads like Highway 90 or Interstate 10, staying in traffic can be dangerous. In that situation, if your car still runs, move it to the shoulder but do not leave the accident scene and always wait for the authorities.

Take photos—it matters more than you think

Snap pictures of everything - the cars, the road, any visible injuries, traffic signs / signals nearby, the road conditions, street signs and traffic. You'll be glad you did later.

Stay calm, pay attention

An accident is alarming - always - but giving over to anger or fear can escalate the situation. Try and remain calm so you can pay close attention to your surroundings, the accident site, the other party and other important information that your insurance company and / or attorney might need in the future.

Exchange info, but keep it simple

Get the name, insurance, car information and contact details. No need to argue about fault at the scene. Another driver or pedestrian helped out at the scene? Get their info too - they might offer perspective on the collision that you missed.

Always get a police report

This is one of the most important pieces of your case. You need this for both your insurance claim and if you decide to file a personal injury lawsuit. Do not agree with the other party not to call the police. The law requires police to investigate all accidents.

Don’t admit fault right away and don't speak to the other party's insurance provider

It's easy sometimes to overshare and want to resolve things quickly after an accident, but keep to the general facts and only talk to the police, your insurance company and your attorney, if needed, regarding the particulars.

Don’t skip medical care

Even if you “feel fine,” injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding and brain trauma can show up later and it's crucial to have medical attention right away if needed.

Talk to a local attorney sooner rather than later

Accidents in our area and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast often involve tourists or out-of-state drivers, which can complicate things quickly. If you feel like you may need legal representation, contact an established local attorney. I've been representing accident victims for over three decades. In my practice, consultations are free so don't hesitate to reach out.

Bottom line: Try and stay calm, document everything, wait for authorities and don’t rush into dealing with insurance companies alone.

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Want to know more about your legal rights? I'll be sharing more about how to navigate the insurance process after an accident, the statute of limitations in filing claims / lawsuits, uninsured motorists and other topics in the next months. As always, if you have immediate questions about a legal matter, please feel free to contact us.