After a car accident—even a seemingly minor one—the insurance company is the very last call that you should make. Insurance companies often audiotape telephone interviews related to accidents. And, at this point, insured drivers do not know the extent of their injuries. Insurance companies determine whether you are eligible for compensation based on the smallest amount of information. Because of their size and the number of clients they have, insurance companies do not have much time to spend on a single case. Furthermore, seeking compensation from your insurance company often becomes a race between you and the other driver—who can deny fault first? Although you may be satisfied with your insurance company’s response, you may be entitled to more compensation than you realize. Before making that phone call to your insurance company, you should first contact:
The Police: After a car accident, the very first call you should make is to the police department (or 911) to report that you have been involved in a car accident. Settling a car accident for cash or a personal check or exchanging personal information without law enforcement present rarely benefits you, especially if you have sustained injuries. Allow the police officer to gather personal information from the other driver and wait for a copy of the report. The police report will contain information needed to seek compensation. Remember to abstain from admitting fault. Admitting fault before an investigation of your case will automatically disqualify you for compensation and make you liable for damages.
Your Doctor: Sometimes, injuries sustained in car accidents may not be visible, or seem insignificant because they are not life-threatening. Seek medical attention, anyway. Neglecting to seek medical care after a car accident or ignoring symptoms of injury can result in serious long-term effects. You should report to your family doctor as soon as possible to determine the severity of injuries, even if they seem small at first.
It is not always obvious when you are injured after a car accident. Serious car accidents injuries that often have delayed symptoms include:
- Neck Injuries,
- Brain or head injuries,
- Spinal cord injuries,
- Injury to internal organs, and
- Psychological trauma.
A Personal Injury Attorney: Consult with a personal injury attorney to determine what your injuries are worth. Reaching out to a personal injury attorney who provides excellent service and is experienced in car accidents will significantly raise your chances of getting the compensation that you deserve.
Where can I Find a Personal Injury Attorney?
At Power & Power, our goal is to help people who have experienced injuries due to a car accident pursue the compensation to which they are entitled. We are compassionate, professional, and knowledgeable in personal injury lawsuits and are committed to working hard on your case. Alaska residents area should contact us at 907-222-9990 for a complimentary consultation.