PERSONAL INJURY: STEPS YOU SHOULD TAKE AFTER AN ACCIDENT.
1. DON’T ADMIT FAULT. Fault is determined by law and is, therefore, a legal conclusion. Do not admit fault. Instead, simply describe what happened to officers at the scene.
2. TALK TO NO ONE ELSE. Do not talk to anyone about your accident except your attorney and police at the scene. You should always require identification so that you are sure who you are talking to. Don't even talk to your own insurance company or to any lawyers hired by your own insurance company. Do not provide a recorded statement without first consulting with your attorney. DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING WITHOUT CONSULTING YOUR ATTORNEY.
3. EXCHANGE INFORMATION. Obtain information from everyone involved in the accident including: 1. insurance card information, 2. driver’s license, 3. vehicle registration, 4. vehicle plates, 5. vehicle description, and 6. passenger names.
4. PHOTOGRAPHS. If it is safe to do so, take photographs of the vehicles before they are moved. Take photographs of the accident scene from a safe place and photographs of the vehicle involved. Take photographs of any property damaged inside of your vehicle such as broken phone or glasses. Also take photographs of any injuries immediately visible and take more photographs of your injuries a few days later when bruises are more apparent.
5. WITNESSES. Obtain contact information for any witnesses at the scene.
6. MEDICAL TREATMENT. Seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Do not minimize your pain.
7. HOSPITAL AND DOCTOR BILLS. If you have medical insurance, request that the hospital bill your medical insurance and do not provide any accident insurance information. Per Nevada law, you have a right to use your medical insurance in the event of an motor vehicle crash, do not let the hospital tell you otherwise.
8. SOCIAL MEDIA. Insurance companies hire investigators to look up all your social media accounts and go through everything you post including images you’ve been tagged in and comments you make since your accident. They will use this information against you. DO NOT POST ANYTHING ON SOCIAL MEDIA THAT WOULD CONTRADICT OR CALL INTO QUESTION YOUR STATEMENT OF INJURIES.
9. WAGES AND EARNINGS LOST. Keep an accurate record of all days lost from work because of your injuries.
10. CAR REPAIR. Do not have your automobile repaired until the insurance companies involved have had an opportunity to inspect your vehicle.
11. CALL OUR OFFICE RIGHT AWAY (702) 977-0000. Accidents are stressful enough, let our office guide you through the process. We will ensure that you receive proper medical treatment and will ensure you are fully compensated for your injuries.
Protect yourself and always Lawyer Up!