According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 10 million car accidents occur every year in the U.S. Considering the inherent dangers of driving and unpredictability of human behavior, this statistic is hardly surprising.
However, those who suffer injuries in auto accidents aren’t simply victims of fate—they’re usually victims of negligence. Here are a few essential steps to take after suffering an injury in a car accident:
Seek Medical Treatment
Even if you only have a minor injury, it’s absolutely essential to seek medical attention. You may discover that your injury is actually more serious than it appears. If you’re worried about medical bills, remember that if you have a legitimate personal injury claim, you may eventually be compensated for your expenditures. Ensuring your health is clearly a top priority.
Obtain Information
If you are uninjured after an accident, obtain all contact and insurance information from the other driver. Also obtain information from passengers and other witnesses. If you have a camera, you should also take pictures of the scene of the accident for later use in court or negotiations. If police officers do not respond to the scene, be sure to file a police report as soon as possible; this documentation can be invaluable during a personal injury case.
Contact an Attorney
As soon as you are able, hire a skilled attorney to determine whether you have a legitimate personal injury case. If your case is valid, your attorney will become your official representative when it comes to dealing with insurance companies, negotiating a settlement, and arguing your case in court. If you hire the right attorney, you’ll likely receive all the compensation you need to fully recover.
Since Illinois has the statute of limitations for personal injury, it’s important to file your claim sooner rather than later. If you’re looking for a personal injury attorney to help you through the process, contact the attorneys of McCready Law For more information, call us at (888) 697-0364.