- April 13, 2016
- Car Accidents
Car accidents often happen in the blink of an eye and tend to leave victims dazed and in shock. As a result, many people are not sure what steps they should take after an accident has happened. It is important to understand that the things victims say and do in the hours and days immediately following a serious accident have the potential to have a direct impact on their ability to recover compensation. Below are some steps that victims can take to help them protect their legal rights and maximize their chances of recovery.
Call 911
The first thing that anyone involved in a car accident should do is call 911. This will ensure that emergency medical personnel are dispatched to the scene and start administering first aid to anyone who needs it. In addition, it is important for law enforcement to be aware of the accident and to determine if any of the drivers have violated South Carolina law.
Collect Information
Individuals who have been involved in a car accident should also collect information about the way in which the accident occurred, if they are able. Some of the facts to make note of include the following:
- The names of the other driver(s) involved in the accident;
- The weather conditions at the time of the accident;
- Contact information from anyone who may have witnessed the wreck;
- Insurance policy information from the other drivers; and
- Any roadway conditions that you believe may have caused or contributed to your accident.
Undergo a Thorough Medical Evaluation Conducted by a Physician
It is critically important for people that have been involved in a car accident to undergo a thorough medical evaluation, even if they do not believe that they have been serious injured. There are many injuries that may seem minor but can actually turn into chronic conditions that have an impact on a person’s day-to-day life. In addition, there are many injuries, such as whiplash, that may not become symptomatic for a significant amount of time after the accident. If there is a substantial delay between a car crash and a medical evaluation, it makes it much easier for the other party to argue that there may have been some intervening cause of a person’s injuries, which could result in an avoidance of liability.
Contact a Lawyer
Car accident claims are extremely complicated and it can be hard for unrepresented parties to obtain the full value of their claims. For this reason, anyone hurt in a car accident should retain an attorney immediately.
Contact Ayers, Smith & Bettis, P.C. Today to Discuss Your Legal Options
If you have been hurt in a car accident caused by someone else, you are likely confused, anxious, and uncertain as to what to do next. Fortunately, the Greenwood, South Carolina car accident lawyers of Ayers, Smithdeal & Bettis, P.C. are here to help. With more than 25 years of experience helping injured victims, we have the experience and skill to help you get the compensation to which you are legally entitled. To schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers, call our office today at 855-213-4405.
