Steps To Take After An Accident

Accidents can happen at any time and under any circumstance; although accidents are frightening, it's important to keep two key things in mind. First, take actions that will prevent further injuries or damages from occurring. Anyone who is injured should get medical treatment as soon as possible, as injuries may worsen if treatment is delayed. If your accident was caused while driving, look to see if it is possible to move your vehicle off the roadway to avoid being hit by another car. Second, you need to take actions that will preserve evidence of the accident and any resulting injuries or damages. Make sure to never leave the scene of the accident. 

Call for an ambulance, if necessary to treat any injuries incurred by anyone involved. You should avoid moving anyone who is injured if you are not trained how to do so properly. If you attempt to move someone who is injured without having the proper training, the individual's injuries may be worsened if moving improperly. 

Make sure you get the names and addresses of everyone involved in the accident, as well as the names and addresses of any witnesses. You should also call the police so that they can investigate the accident and file a report. Information in the police report may be valuable evidence later on. 

If you have a camera available to you, you should take pictures immediately. You should take pictures of the damage to vehicles, any structures with which the vehicles collided and the accident scene. Take plenty of pictures and take them from multiple angles. Take pictures of injuries as well, so that you will have visual proof of the extent of bruising, swelling, burns etc. Continue to photograph injuries over time to show the length of the recovery. 

Get the advice of an attorney as soon as possible after the accident. The attorneys at the Janklow Law Firm will take the time to meet with you personally for a free consultation to discuss your case. Our attorneys are educated to evaluate the evidence that you have gathered and determine what else may be needed. Don't wait too long to contact an attorney, or you may no longer be able to locate valuable evidence. It is normal to feel overwhelmed and scared following an accident. Rest assured that the experienced attorneys and specialized personal injury legal team at Janklow Law will ensure each claim is thoroughly and properly investigated so you may focus on recovering from your injury.