Blog

An auto accident that results in injuries can be an extremely traumatic experience. Your life suddenly changes in ways you never expected. The severity of car accident injuries and the long road to recovery ahead can feel terrifying and overwhelming.

However, it is critical to remain as calm as possible and take proper steps to protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover damages that you may be owed. The actions you take in the aftermath of a serious auto accident can have major consequences for your wellbeing and any future insurance or potential legal claims.

Recovering from auto accident injuries is difficult enough without financial distress. Following these steps and seeking legal counsel if needed can help alleviate challenges and ensure you take the right steps to pursue any available compensation you need to move on with your life.

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

The first and most important thing is to seek medical attention right away. Call 911 for emergency services or go directly to an emergency room or urgent care center. Get evaluated and follow all recommendations from doctors for treatment, testing, and follow-up care. Make sure to get copies of all medical reports and bills, as these will be needed for insurance and litigation purposes. Following professional medical recommendations and keeping track of documentation will both help you illustrate the severity of the accident and recover more effectively.

2. Contact the Police

As soon as possible after receiving any required medical care, contact the local police to report the motor vehicle accident. Request that an official police report of the incident be filed, and obtain the contact details of any responding police officers. This police report and officer testimony may be important evidence to support your claim.

3. Gather Evidence from the Scene of the Accident

Gather additional evidence from the accident scene as soon as you are able to do so safely. Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, conditions of the roadway, and anything else relevant to the cause of the crash. Get contact information from any witnesses or other parties involved. All of this information can help bolster an insurance claim or potential personal injury lawsuit.

4. Report the Claim to Your Insurance Provider

Call your auto insurance provider promptly after the accident to report the claim. Answer any questions from insurance adjusters or investigators fully and honestly. While cooperating with your own insurance company is necessary to process a claim, be very cautious about any recorded statements, as these can affect any potential future litigation.

5. Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney

For severe or complex motor vehicle accidents, especially those resulting in serious injuries or permanent disabilities, it is advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney in Albuquerque. A qualified lawyer with experience in accident litigation can handle communications with insurance companies, conduct a professional investigation into the crash, and help you pursue litigation to recover damages, if available. They can advise you on legal options and help ensure your rights are protected at every step.

With over 20 years of experience handling auto accident and injury cases, Singleton Schreiber Albuquerque car accident lawyers have the expertise to guide you through the process and pursue maximum compensation for your losses so you can focus on your recovery. Consult with us to review the details of your case, deal with insurance companies, and determine if litigation is possible to recover damages. Our team can help alleviate the tremendous challenges of rebuilding your life after a traumatic auto accident.