Car accidents are far too common. With car accidents also comes the likelihood of injury from the accident. Car accident injuries can range anywhere from minor cuts and bruises to serious life-altering injuries. These injuries can result in a financial burden that is not easy to keep up with or face. Luckily, there are legal options for you if you have been injured in a car accident caused by another. You may be entitled to receive compensation through a personal injury suit against the other driver. A personal injury suit is generally complicated and must be approached methodically, with the help of an experienced attorney. You want to have a strong case, which can depend on taking a few simple actions.
Receive Necessary Medical Care
First and foremost, it is important to receive appropriate medical care as soon as possible. Whether that means calling an ambulance to the scene of an accident or seeking a medical exam from a doctor after the accident, it is important to be checked out by a medical professional. Not every injury appears in full force right after it is sustained. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) lists common injuries from motor vehicle crashes, including more dormant injuries that take time to manifest. In addition to preserving your health, the medical diagnosis and prognosis from your doctor is an essential component to your personal injury claim. The largest component of a personal injury suit is usually the medical bills and expenses. Without seeking help from a medical professional, receiving the necessary treatment, and actually incurring damages, a personal injury suit can not move forward.
Keep Meticulous Records
After being involved in an accident in Virginia, drivers are required to stop at the scene and report the accident. Law enforcement officers will come to the scene of the accident and make a report of their findings. The officers will likely ask each party what they think happened, make note of conditions affecting the accident, and give a general overview of their findings. It is essential that you obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
In addition to the police officers’ report, you should keep your own notes about the accident. Make a record of what your recollections of the accident are, any conditions that may have contributed to the accident, and anything else relevant to the accident. In addition to a written record, it is important to take photographs at the scene of the accident. Take photos of any weather conditions, the damage to the vehicle, and other physical evidence at the scene.
Finally, if there were any witnesses to the accident, try to obtain their contact information. A witness could be useful later on in a personal injury suit.
The personal injury attorneys at Greg Baker Attorneys at Law, PLLC are here to help you. We know that accidents are scary and recovery can seem daunting. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.