Dealing with a Car Accident at the Scene to Get a Better Settlement

Every year, millions of Americans suffer injuries as a result of car accidents. While many accidents result in nothing more than scrapes and bruises, some can result in significant property damage and severe injuries requiring extended medical interventions. 

If such an accident results from another driver’s negligence, you can sue them for compensation for the damages you suffer. But your chances of recovering what you deserve in compensation will depend on how you handle the situation right from the accident scene. Speaking to accident attorney Dennis Abrams is a smart move.

This article outlines the steps you should take at the accident scene to get a better settlement after a car accident. 

Call 911

Your health and everyone involved in an accident should be a priority. So check to see if you or others have suffered injuries. Not all injuries will show immediately, so the best approach would be to call 911 even when you or other parties may not have apparent injuries. 

There are two main reasons for getting medical help at the scene. First, it helps get timely interventions that can make a big difference in recovery. Secondly, it provides documentation that helps link the injuries to the accident and damage valuation later.

Calling 911 brings paramedics and the police to the scene of the accident. Having the police come to the scene is important because they will document it and create a report, which will be critical in determining fault. The police report is a public document you can access from your local police station’s website or by visiting the police station. 

Scene Documentation

There may be some time between calling the first responder and having them get to the accident scene. As you await help, document the scene by taking pictures and videos of the scene and injuries. The sooner you can document the scene, the better, as it helps get all the details before tampering. 

The accident scene is also the perfect place to collect information from witnesses, including their testimonies and contact information, if they are willing to help in your case. 

Do Not Admit Fault, but You May Need To Inform Your Insurer

Most insurers have a clause that requires their clients never to admit fault, even when it is obvious. So, be careful with your communication at the scene. 

“Even a simple apology can be interpreted as an admission of guilt, but this doesn’t mean you should not show empathy to parties injured in an accident. Do not let your communication imply an admission of guilt. 

Insurance companies also have a clause requiring policyholders to report all accidents even when they are not at fault. Failing to notify your insurer can result in a voiding of your coverage. The reason for reporting all accidents is to help your insurer prepare if you are found liable in some way. 

After the Scene

After you have done everything at the scene, the next step would be proving your case to recover compensation. Most car accident lawsuits are resolved out of court by having both parties agree. Where there is no amicable resolution, the lawsuit goes to trial. 

You could choose to handle a car accident lawsuit on your own. However, handling a lawsuit that involves significant damage without a lawyer will almost always result in a settlement that may not cover your damages adequately. So, if your damages are more than a few bruises, talk to an attorney for help navigating your case. 

Conclusion

Taking the right steps at the scene of a car accident can significantly impact your settlement. Prioritizing medical attention, documenting evidence, and avoiding admissions of fault help protect your claim. Reporting the accident to your insurer and gathering witness information also strengthen your case. While some claims settle quickly, others require legal action. If your injuries or damages are substantial, working with an experienced attorney can improve your chances of securing fair compensation. A lawyer ensures your rights are protected and helps you maximize your settlement.