Kirk Bernard

You just got in a car accident. Your heart is beating against your chest. You’re breathing gets heavier and heavier. You look around. You are alive and so is everyone else. Now what? The few minutes immediately after a Seattle car accident are extremely crucial, especially if you have been injured or have suffered damages as a result of someone else’s negligence. There are things that you can do proactively and certain actions that you need to take at the scene.

1. Keep your insurance information in the glove compartment including a pre-printed form that will allow you to take down the particulars of the car accident. Keep a pen or pencil in that package so you can make a sketch of the accident scene. Keep a disposable camera in your car to take photographs of the accident scene. Also, keep a flashlight handy so you’re not fumbling in the dark to find these important items.
2. Always remain at the scene of the accident until police have taken down a report. Write down the name of the officer who responded to the call, his or her badge number and make sure that they interviewed and got your version of what happened.
3. Be sure to exchange names, addresses, driver’s license and insurance information with the driver of the other car or vehicles involved.
4. Report the accident promptly to your insurance company – whether you believe your accident is minor or major.
5. Review your insurance policy to make sure of your coverage. Make a list of questions and related information you want to know. Write down everything about the accident scene, about your injuries, your family member’s injuries and how you feel. Keep a journal of what you went through after the accident.
6. Make sure that you get medical treatment immediately for your injuries. If you take too long to go to a doctor, it may become problematic when you claim compensation for your injuries. It’s a common mistake many accident victims make. Please do not fall in that trap. Even if you feel “OK” after the accident, get checked out that same day or the next day at the latest. Some injuries such as “whiplash” may not be felt until days after the accident.
7. A car accident case can become quite complicated, especially if there are multiple parties or multiple vehicles involved. Do not talk to any insurance adjusters or attorneys for other parties, unless you have consulted with your own personal injury lawyer, who will remain on your side, fight for your rights and protect your best interests. Do not sign any papers or agreements – not until you’ve talked to a skilled Washington personal injury lawyer.

If you are seriously injured in an auto accident, or someone you know is injured, call the experienced Seattle personal injury attorneys at the Bernard Law Group, 1-800-418-8282. Kirk Bernard and his legal team can help you immediately. All e-mail and form submissions will be responded to by a qualified and knowledgeable member of our firm within 24 hours. Call our toll-free number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and we promise to respond immediately.