Dos and Don’ts After a Car Crash
Life in New Jersey and Pennsylvania can be calm, but at other points individuals experience unexpected curveballs. One unfortunate event that can be particularly surprising is a car crash that leads to physical injuries and financial stress. If you’ve recently found yourself in this situation, know there are best practices to put your life back on track.
A Bucks County personal injury attorney can walk you through the dos and don’ts following a car crash. This means you don’t have to research the field of personal injury law and try to suss out different state rules, simply lean on the expertise of a seasoned professional to access the monetary settlement you need to pay for medical fees and property damage expenses.
Dos: Safety First and Prioritizing Documentation
While the immediate moments after a car crash can be confusing and chaotic, the top priority is your personal safety and the safety of others who have been involved in the incident. Check yourself for injuries, ask if others are ok, and if necessary, call for emergency medical assistance. You will also want to move your vehicle to a safe location, if possible, and turn on your hazard lights.
And even if you don’t feel injured, having your health reviewed by a medical professional soon after the event is advised. That is because injured parties may not experience symptoms right away. A thorough medical examination will give you peace of mind, connect you with a treatment plan if there is a hidden injury, and provide valuable documentation for any potential legal claims.
Taking pictures to document the accident site can also support your recovery requests. Capture images of the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Collect the names, phone numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers of other parties involved, too, as this documentation can be crucial when dealing with insurance claims or legal proceedings.
Don’ts: Admitting Fault and Neglecting Legal Advice
It is common for people to begin apologizing when something has gone wrong, but after a car crash it’s essential to resist the urge if you feel compelled to say you’re sorry for something you did not do. Admitting fault at the scene, even when done as an emotional outburst, can complicate matters down the road when determining liability.
Another misstep is navigating the legal complexities alone. Seeking legal advice from a qualified Bucks County personal injury attorney after a NJ or PA accident can make a world of difference. Hiring an experienced lawyer is a strategic move as they understand the local laws and know how to protect your rights. From negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, a skilled attorney can be your strongest ally when it comes to accident recovery.
Do you need next-step guidance after a Bucks County car accident? The legal team at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. has the skills to handle the legal nitty-gritty so you can focus on healing and repairing or replacing your vehicle. Schedule your no-commitment consultation today, simply call 215-968-6602.
