What Should You Do If You Are Seriously Injured?
The specific steps you need to take to protect your rights if seriously injured in an auto accident, explained by the Duke Firm, PC of Houston. Just as there are certain things that might jeopardize your accident lawsuit, there are other things that you should definitely do to reinforce you personal injury case. These actions are not only common sense for your own well-being, but also likely required by your insurance company or by law.
Often when involved in a car accident, it is common and even normal to go into a mild to severe state of shock. This can impair thinking and decision-making. First and foremost, physical injuries should be assessed and emergency treatment administered, if possible. Over the next few days, the following also needs to be done.
Steps to Take If Injured
- Seek medical attention – In addition to the immediate medical attention you may receive at the site of the accident or immediately following the accident at an emergency medical center, it is very important to follow up with medical care. Get a full medical examination completed and request copies of your medical reports for your records and for your attorney's files.
- Follow medical treatment plan – After you have been diagnosed and a treatment plan designed, it is imperative that you stick to the plan. Follow through with taking your prescribed medication. Schedule and attend your physical or psychological therapy sessions. Whatever your treatment plan is, disregarding it can cause you to compromise you lawsuit.
- Complete and file accident reports – If you were able to answer questions from the police at the time of the accident, obtain a copy of that report. Otherwise, file and submit an accident report with the police within the legal time frame. It is always important to comply with the state laws regarding accident report filing.
- Request witness testimony – Sometimes the witnesses to an accident can add valuable testimony, supporting your lawsuit. At the very least, get the names and contact information of any and all witnesses to your car accident.
- Contact your insurance company – Your insurance company has requirements regarding reporting any accident involving you or your vehicle.
- Consult with legal counsel – The help of representation by an accident attorney can make a huge difference in the outcome of your claim. When you provide all the information about the circumstances of your accident and your personal injuries, your lawyer will be able to give you the advice you need to make your decisions about how to move forward with your case.
If you take these simple first steps following an injury accident, you will be protecting yourself legally and equipping yourself with everything you can to get the compensation that is rightfully yours. Call the Duke Firm, PC in Houston to schedule a free initial consultation and get accident advice from a knowledgeable and experienced attorney.
