Posted: April 4, 2019
Racking up medical bills after an unexpected injury is something no one should have to deal with. Unfortunately, car crashes in our state lead to just that situation every day. The most important thing is to get the medical care you need. Failing to treat an injury could lead to even further health problems. Once you've received care and are wondering what to do next, give our Norfolk and Omaha law firm a call at 402-371-4300.
The Dos and Don'ts
Each crash is different. You'll need to rely on your instincts and best judgment in the moment. Having said that, the following pointers are generally a good idea, and may ultimately prove helpful in pursuing full and fair compensation:
- DO get yourself into a safe spot. The location of the accident may have placed you in the path of traffic or other danger. Be sure to prioritize your safety.
- DO call the police. They will decide whether the crash necessitates officers at the scene. Either way, you should call them to make sure the crash is reported.
- DO call an ambulance if you or someone else is seriously injured. Serious injuries require emergency care. Use your judgment as you decide whether to get an ambulance.
- DO exchange information with the other driver. You should exchange: Names, driver's license numbers, contact information, vehicle descriptions, license plate numbers, insurance company names and insurance policy numbers. Additionally, get the names and contact information of any eyewitnesses. If there was a responding police officer, ask for their name and badge number. Write down the accident location.
- DO take pictures. If and when it is safe to do so, take pictures of damage to vehicles, your injuries and the surrounding scene.
- DO get medical care. Even if you don't need emergency care, schedule a full evaluation with your doctor. Some injuries do not cause immediate problems but develop in the days after a crash.
- DO call our attorneys. We handle accident claims routinely, so we can determine the options available to you. You may be able to pursue maximum compensation in a claim handled by our attorneys.
- DON'T lose your temper. Accidents are scary. If your car was badly damaged, you may feel angry. It's important to stay as calm as possible. When emotions are running high, you're more likely to make a poor decision or lose awareness of your surroundings. Remember to get yourself and your passengers to safety, and obtain the information you need from the other driver.
- DON'T apologize. Some people instinctively utter "I'm so sorry" or "sorry if that was my fault" when they get out of their cars to talk to the other driver. Doing so is not a good idea because an apology implies an admission of fault; or, it could be interpreted that way by insurers or other parties. It's a better idea to stick to exchanging information without any discussion of what took place.
- DON'T discuss fault. Like apologizing, it's not a good idea to try to place blame with the other driver or discuss your own role in the accident.
- DON'T leave the scene. Hit-and-runs are illegal. If police are responding to the scene, do not leave until the officer tells you it is okay to do so. If police are not responding, do not leave until you have exchanged all necessary information with the other driver and you both agree it's okay to part ways.
- DON'T accept a settlement before discussing it with our attorneys. Initial settlement offers could be lower than what your case is actually worth. Ask our attorneys to review any settlement offer you receive.
How To File a Claim for Compensation
Call our lawyers to find out what to do next. Whether it's been an hour, days or months since your motor vehicle wreck in Nebraska, we can help you understand your options. We know how frustrating and isolating these situations can be. Rely on us for honest, straightforward information and guidance.
Learn More About Your Options
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Omaha, Lincoln, Norfolk or any of the surrounding areas, please call our experienced, compassionate attorneys for more information about your options. You can contact Copple, Rockey, McKeever & Schlecht at 402-371-4300.
