Accidents are part of life. Tragically, the National Safety Council (NSC) reports that accidental injuries are the third leading cause of death in the United States. Tens of millions of people require emergency medical attention for their injuries every year. If someone else was responsible for causing your accident, you have the right to seek compensation through a personal injury claim.
What do I need to do after an accident to bring a personal injury claim?
There are some very important steps that you should take to put yourself in the best position to protect your health and your rights. Here, our Philadelphia personal injury attorney highlights five key actions that you should take after a serious accident in Pennsylvania.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention (and Follow-Up Care)
Your health and well-being should always be your number one priority after an accident. Emergency care comes first. Further, while you may not believe that you were seriously hurt, it is still important to get checked out by a medical professional. They can assess your injuries and provide any necessary treatment. Be sure to follow up with any recommended care—such as physical therapy or follow-up appointments—to ensure that your injuries heal properly.
- Report the Accident to the Appropriate Parties
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may need to report it to the police, your employer, or the property owner where the accident occurred. This will help establish a record of the accident and may be necessary for you to be able to pursue a claim for damages. You may also need to provide some form of notice to an insurance company.
- Document the Cause of the Accident and Your Damages
Liability for an accident is generally based on fault. It is essential that you gather evidence and documentation related to both your accident and your injuries. Along with other things, this generally includes photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and medical records. The more documentation you have, the more helpful it will be in terms of proving liability and damages.
- Beware of Insurance Companies
After an accident, you may be contacted by the at-fault party’s insurance company. Be wary of giving them a statement or agreeing to any settlement offer without first consulting with an experienced attorney. Insurance companies may try to minimize their payout by offering you a lowball settlement or denying your claim altogether.
- Consult With an Experienced Attorney
You do not have to navigate the complexities of personal injury law and the personal injury claims process alone. An experienced Philadelphia personal injury attorney can review your case, answer your most pressing questions, and develop a strategy focused on getting you real results.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Top Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyer
At the Quinn Law Group, our Philadelphia personal injury lawyer fights aggressively to help injured victims get results. We are here to be your voice and your advocate. Contact us today for a no-cost, no-commitment initial case review. With a law office in Philadelphia, we fight for the rights of injured victims in Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey.
