1. Stop your car, no matter how minor the accident.
    
2. Assist any injured persons. Call for an ambulance,
   if  necessary.
    
3. Call and wait for the police.
    
4. Identify the other driver and get his/her address,
   telephone number and insurance information.
    
5. Get the names, addresses and telephone
   numbers from all witnesses.
    
6. Do not move the vehicles until the police view the scene,
   unless it is hazardous to leave the vehicles as they are.
    
7. If possible, take pictures of the accident scene, even if the vehicles have been moved. 
   Pay particular attention to skid marks and damage to all vehicles involved.
    
8. Never admit to the police or anyone else on the scene that the accident was your fault. It may turn out that it was not your fault, and anything you say can and will be used against you to defeat your claim for compensation.
    
9. You may not be aware of the extent of your injuries immediately after the accident.  It is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
    
10. Inform your doctor that you were in an auto accident.  Tell him about all of your complaints no matter how minor, including past injuries to the same body parts that are presently injured.
     
11. Notify your insurance company about the accident. Even though you are required to cooperate with your insurance company, do not give them a statement (written or tape recorded) without first contacting your attorney.
     
12. Never submit to any request for a statement by the other driver's insurance company. You are not legally obligated to give a statement. Such a statement could later be used against you.  Simply refer them to your attorney.
    
    Remember: Insurance companies are big business.  They do not have your best interests in mind. The adjuster's sole objective is to settle your claim for as little as possible.
     
13. As soon as possible after the auto accident, you should photograph any visible injuries (i.e. cuts, bruises, broken bones, etc.)  Before repairing your car, photograph the damage from all angles.  If possible, take pictures of the other vehicle, as well. Provide your attorneys with copies (and negatives) of all photographs pertaining to your claim.
     
14. Consult with your attorney to determine who is responsible for payment of your medical bills. Your medical bills could be processed through the other driver's insurance company, your auto insurance policy or through your group health insurance.  An attorney will help you determine when to submit which bills to which insurance company.  Be aware that some insurance policies require reimbursement of any medical expenses upon settlement of your claim, but that some do not have any right to reimbursement.
     
15. Keep accurate records of your lost time and wages from work as a result of your auto accident. This information will assist your attorney in determining the value of your claim and helping maximize the recovery from your claim.
     
16. Before you repair the damage to your car, contact your attorney.  Generally, your insurance company will pay to have your car repaired or pay you the value of the vehicle if it is a total loss.  If it is determined that you are not at fault for the accident, your own insurance company could pay for repairs, then be reimbursed from the insurance company of the driver who was at fault.  Your attorney will explain the best way to have your car replaced or your total loss adjusted.

If you or any member of your family have been injured in an auto accident, you need to ensure that your legal rights are protected, as soon as possible.

Please contact The Hines Law Firm by calling us toll free at (877) 473-4500 for a free, no obligation consultation with a qualified personal injury attorney from our office.