What To Do After a Car Accident
December 2012
Despite being a safe, conscientious driver, you may find yourself involved in a car accident. You can’t control what other drivers do, so you shouldn’t fool yourself into thinking that it can’t happen to you. It pays to know what to do in the event of a car accident. That knowledge will help you get through the experience more safely, securely and easily.
As a Minnesota resident, you’re in luck. The Minneapolis law firm of Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben is available to assist you in the event of a car accident. The firm offers a smartphone Accident App on their mobile website at www.schwebel.com, which will guide you through the appropriate steps to take in the aftermath of an automobile accident. Downloading and using the app is great, but it can help to study up about the basic steps to take after being involved in a car accident.
Get Yourself Out of Harm’s Way
Many auto accidents happen on busy streets and freeways. Immediately after an accident occurs, get yourself and your passengers out of danger. This is especially important if there is a fire or other hazardous conditions.
Call for Medical Help
In the event of a medical emergency, it’s crucial to dial 911 right away. Even if you don’t think you’ve suffered any serious injuries, it’s smart to be looked over by medical professionals as quickly as possible.
Refer to the Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben Accident App
Even if you commit all of these steps to memory, remembering them may be difficult in the aftermath of a car accident. There’s usually a lot of chaos, and it’s easy to overlook important things. By using the app, you will be able to refresh your memory while you’re still at the scene.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in Minneapolis
Following a car accident, you’re going to have to interact with various organizations and agencies. Without the help of an experienced personal injury attorney, your rights may be compromised. Don’t wait until you get home to contact a lawyer. Things that jeopardize your rights can happen right after an accident. Keep in mind that you can use the Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben app to contact an experienced lawyer right away.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver
You and the other driver will have to exchange a variety of information. Be prepared to provide your driver’s license number, license plate number and car insurance information. Make sure to get this information from the other driver too.
Obtain Copies of Everything
From police reports to insurance forms, make sure to obtain and keep copies of all of the paperwork that relates to your car accident. You and your attorney will need these documents later.
What Not to Do After an Auto Accident
There are many mistakes that people commonly make after being involved in car accidents. In addition to following the preceding steps, you should avoid making these mistakes. Don’t argue with others at the scene of the accident. In fact, don’t discuss any aspect of the incident with anyone but your personal injury lawyer, including insurance companies. Don’t sign anything without having your attorney present. Never accept a claim without having your lawyer present either. Insurance companies, including your own, don’t have your best interests at heart. Without having the paperwork looked over by a competent personal injury lawyer, you won’t be able to tell if the claim is fair or not.
After a Car Accident, Call Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben Right Away
Car accidents are upsetting and overwhelming. It’s not surprising that so many people make mistakes after they are involved in such situations. The top mistake that Minneapolis drivers make is not retaining attorneys right away. Don’t make that mistake yourself. If you’re involved in an automobile accident in Minneapolis, contact Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben right away. If you know someone who has been involved in a car accident in Minneapolis, make sure that he or she contacts Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben immediately too.
Never assume that an accident is too small or inconsequential. It’s critical to do what you can to ensure that your rights and the rights of your loved ones are protected every step of the way. Call Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben toll-free at 1-800-752-4265 or locally at (612) 377-7777 to schedule a free consultation now.