If you’ve been injured, another driver caused your accident, or you are unsure of your legal rights, it’s highly recommended that you speak with a car accident lawyer.
Being involved in a St. Louis car accident can be extremely overwhelming. From dealing with medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages to dealing with insurance companies on top of it all, it can be hard to know where to turn for help. You may understandably feel overwhelmed by the amount of decisions you need to make. One of the most important is deciding when to get in touch with a car accident lawyer.
The benefits of getting in touch with an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible after an accident, before speaking with any insurance adjusters, cannot be overstated. An attorney can ensure your legal rights are protected, and your injuries and expenses are well-documented.
Steps to Take After a St. Louis Car Accident
The first thing you should do after being involved in a car accident is to prioritize the health and safety of yourself and others involved in the accident. If you or anyone else has been severely injured, it is important to contact emergency medical services. Even if you feel okay after an accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Because some symptoms may take time to appear, it is important to have a qualified medical professional to ensure you do not have any hidden injuries.
You should also call the police to report the car accident and exchange information with the other drivers involved, including their names, contact information, insurance information and license plate number.
If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including pictures of any skid marks on the road, damage to your vehicle, and any visible injuries. Collect the information of any eyewitnesses to the accident.
FInally, before speaking with any insurance adjusters, contact an experienced St. Louis car accident attorney to discuss the specifics of your accident and ensure your legal rights are protected.
What to Avoid After a Car Accident
Don’t leave the scene of the accident: This can result in criminal charges.
Don’t say anything to imply that you are at-fault for the accident: Words can be misinterpreted. Avoid saying things like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you coming.”
Don’t sign anything: Insurance companies will likely try contacting you soon after the accident to offer a quick settlement. It is best to avoid speaking with them until you have spoken with an experienced car accident lawyer for legal guidance.
When Should You Call a Car Accident Attorney?
If you have been involved in a car accident, it is generally best to schedule a free consultation with a car accident attorney to learn more about your legal rights and options, regardless of whether you think the accident was severe or not. However, you should especially speak with a car accident lawyer in the follow scenarios:
- You’ve been injured in a car accident
- Another driver was at-fault for the accident
- You are unsure about your legal rights after an accident
What Information Should You Provide to Your Accident Lawyer
You should be prepared to provide your car accident attorney with any evidence you were able to collect from the accident scene, including photos of the accident scene, the insurance and contact information of the other driver, the contact information of any eyewitnesses, and any medical bills or records.
Benefits of Working With a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
The benefits of working with a car accident lawyer after an accident are numerous. Accident lawyers can provide you with the knowledge, experience, and representation you need to successfully navigate your accident claim and obtain the compensation you need to move forward after an accident. One of the greatest benefits of working with a car accident lawyer is peace of mind. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by paperwork and decisions, you can focus on recovering and moving forward and allow your car accident lawyer to handle your claim.
St. Louis Car Accident Attorney
If you have been involved in a St. Louis car accident, The Hoffmann Law Firm is ready to help. We have been protecting the rights of injured car accident victims in and around St. Louis, MO for over 20 years and can put our knowledge and experience to work for you. Give us a call 24/7 for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal rights and options after an accident.