What do you do after a car accident? At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we’re here to help you and protect your rights.
Car accidents can be overwhelming, but knowing what steps to take immediately afterward can significantly impact your safety, health, and legal standing. Remaining calm is crucial if you are in a car accident.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Peoria, consider contacting us at Schierer & Ritchie, LLC. We’re here to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Check for Injuries and Ensure Safety
- Assess Yourself and Passengers: Take a moment to assess your condition immediately after the accident. Check for injuries on yourself, passengers, and others involved in the accident. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance.
- Move to a Safe Location: If possible and without causing further injury, move your vehicle out of the traffic flow to avoid additional accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the situation.
Call the Police
- Report the Accident: In Peoria, it’s essential to call the police to report the accident, regardless of the severity. The responding officers will document the scene and create an official accident report, which is crucial for insurance and legal purposes.
- Provide Accurate Information: When speaking to the police, provide an accurate account of what happened. Avoid admitting fault or making assumptions about who was at fault. Please stick to the facts and allow the police to conduct their investigation.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver
- Gather Necessary Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Be sure to collect the following details:
- Full name and contact information
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- Avoid Confrontation: Keep the interaction with the other driver(s) cordial. Do not engage in arguments or discuss the details of the accident beyond exchanging necessary information.
Document the Accident Scene
- Take Photographs: Use your smartphone or a camera to take detailed photos of the accident scene, including:
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- Skid marks, debris, or any road conditions that may have contributed to the accident
- Traffic signs, signals, and surrounding environment
- Record Details: Record the accident’s time, date, and location. Note any relevant weather conditions or road hazards that could have affected the accident.
Identify and Collect Information from Witnesses
- Speak to Witnesses: If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information and a brief statement of what they observed. Witnesses can provide valuable testimony if there are disputes about what happened.
- Record Their Statements: If possible, record their statements using your phone or write them down. Ensure you have their names and phone numbers for future reference.
Seek Medical Attention
- Get a Medical Evaluation: Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention immediately after the accident is crucial. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a doctor’s evaluation can help identify and document any injuries you have sustained.
- Follow Medical Advice: If a healthcare provider prescribes a treatment plan, follow it carefully. Keep all medical records, as they may be necessary for future legal claims.
Notify Your Insurance Company
- Report the Accident: Contact your insurance company immediately to report the accident. Provide them with all necessary information, including the police report number, the other driver’s details, and any photographs or documentation you’ve gathered.
- Understand Your Coverage: Ask your insurance company about your coverage and what steps you need to take next. They will guide you through the process of filing a claim and getting your vehicle repaired.
Consult with an Attorney
- Understand Your Rights: If you’ve been injured or believe the accident was not your fault, it’s wise to consult with a personal injury attorney in Peoria. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
- Avoid Settling Too Soon: Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement, but it’s important to consult an attorney before accepting any offers. Once you settle, you typically waive your right to pursue further compensation.
Keep Detailed Records
- Organize Your Documents: Keep a detailed record of all documents related to the accident, including:
- Police reports
- Medical records and bills
- Correspondence with insurance companies
- Receipts for any expenses related to the accident
- Document Your Recovery: Maintain a journal documenting your recovery process, including any pain, suffering, and impact on your daily life. This can be useful if you pursue a personal injury claim.
Stay Informed and Proactive
- Follow-up: Stay in touch with your insurance company and attorney to ensure your case progresses. Respond to any requests for information promptly to avoid delays.
- Be Aware of Deadlines: Be mindful of any legal deadlines for filing claims or lawsuits in Illinois. An attorney can help you navigate these timelines and protect your rights.
Contact Us Today
A car accident can be a life-altering event, but knowing what to do immediately afterward can significantly affect the outcome. You can protect yourself physically, legally, and financially by following these steps. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Peoria, consider contacting us at Schierer & Ritchie, LLC. We’re here to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
