Successful people like to be proactive, taking care of things right away instead of putting them off. This attitude can pay off big in many areas, but if you’re injured in a car accident in California, it will most likely do you more harm than good. It’s important not to get sucked in by a cheerful claims adjuster that tells you they will settle your claim quickly without a lawyer because they usually offer you pennies on the dollar. Even worse, anything you tell them can be used against you later in court. The best way to maximize the amount of compensation you receive is to speak to a California car accident attorney as soon as possible after your crash.
What To Do After A Car Accident
The first priority is always to seek medical attention for yourself and others involved in the accident. Call 911 to request the police and an ambulance. If you’re injured, it’s best for your health and your legal claim to be taken to the nearest emergency room to be checked out. If you’re physically able, take pictures and videos of the scene that establish how the accident happened, damages to vehicles and injuries sustained. Tell the police your version of what happened and try to find witnesses that saw the crash. Exchange information with the other driver, including their name, address, phone number, email and insurance company. It’s a good idea to speak to a California car accident attorney before you report the accident to your own insurance company or speak to the insurance company for the other vehicle. When you hire an attorney, the insurance company must speak only to your attorney and can no longer call you directly.
How Speaking To The Insurance Company Can Ruin Your Case
Insurance companies know that some injuries heal quickly and others can be long lasting, and that it’s not possible to know this until many months after an accident. That’s why they call victims right after an accident, on a recorded line, asking them how they’re feeling. Something as simple as responding “I’m fine,” could be devastating to your case if it went to a jury. Back injuries, knee injuries and other problems can feel much worse a week after the accident than they do the day after. That’s why insurance companies try to get people to settle their case for a tiny amount of money very quickly. An experienced California car accident attorney knows how to help you develop the evidence to get you the highest amount of compensation possible for the injuries you sustained.
Find Out How We Can Help
At Silva Injury Law we promote healing through compassionate advocacy. With each case tailored to the individual, we look our for your best interests by evaluating your unique circumstances. Contact us today for a FREE in person or remote consultation.