What to Do After a Car Accident: A Complete Guide

A car accident can leave you overwhelmed and uncertain about your next steps. Knowing what to do after a car accident is essential to protecting your rights, health, and financial well-being.

At Merrick Brock PLLC, we have decades of experience assisting car accident victims in Virginia. We are committed to guiding clients through the complexities of the aftermath and fighting for the compensation they deserve. If you’re unsure about your next steps, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of what to do after a car accident and how we can help.

How Merrick Brock PLLC Can Help You

At Merrick Brock PLLC, we have years of experience helping car accident victims across Virginia. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.

Our team offers personalized attention, treating every case as unique. We’ll investigate the details of your accident, negotiate with insurers, and advocate for your best interests in court if necessary. With a proven track record of success and a client-centered approach, you can trust us to fight for the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Virginia

It’s important to know what to do after a car accident. Virginia residents should keep the following in mind in case they ever find themselves in this unfortunate situation.

1. Ensure Safety First

Your safety and the safety of others involved should be your top priority after a car accident. Acting quickly and responsibly can prevent further harm.

If possible, move your vehicle from the traffic lane to a safe location, such as the road’s shoulder, and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Next, check yourself, your passengers, and others involved for injuries. Even if no injuries are apparent, call 911 so emergency responders can assess the situation and provide medical care. A police report is also essential for insurance claims and potential legal action.

If the accident involves serious injuries, it’s crucial not to move anyone unless there is an immediate danger. Waiting for trained medical professionals ensures you don’t accidentally make an injury worse.

2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you feel fine after an accident, know that some injuries may not immediately present symptoms. Conditions like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions often develop hours or even days later. Promptly seeking medical attention ensures that any injuries are diagnosed and treated before they worsen.

Call an ambulance or visit the nearest hospital if your injuries require emergency care. Schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor as soon as possible and continue to monitor for symptoms. Keep records of all medical visits, treatments, and prescriptions, as these documents will be critical for your insurance claim or personal injury case.

Failing to seek medical attention promptly can hurt a future claim for compensation. Insurance companies may argue that delayed care indicates that your injuries were minor or unrelated to the accident.

3. Document the Scene

Accurate documentation is critical to protecting your rights and strengthening your case. Start by taking photos of the vehicles involved, including their positions on the road, visible damage, skid marks, road signs, and traffic signals. These images can provide valuable evidence if liability is disputed later.

Be sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Obtain their name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance policy details. If witnesses are at the scene, ask for their contact information, as their statements can support your account of the incident.

Once the police arrive, ensure they document the scene thoroughly. Take note of the responding officer’s name, badge number, and report number so you can request a copy later.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

You should report car accidents to your insurance companies promptly. However, it’s essential to exercise caution when discussing the details of the incident. When you speak with your insurance company, stick to the basic facts, such as the accident’s date, time, and location. Avoid making statements about fault.

Be wary of accepting a quick settlement offer. Insurance companies may try to minimize insurance payouts by making low compensation offers. Before agreeing to any settlement, consult an experienced car accident attorney to ensure the offer is fair.

5. Hire a Car Accident Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be challenging, especially when dealing with injuries, insurance companies, and complex legal rules. An experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

A car accident attorney will thoroughly investigate the incident, gathering evidence like photos, witness statements, and expert opinions to build a strong case. They’ll handle negotiations with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. They can also represent you in court to fight for your rights if necessary.

An experienced lawyer will also comply with all deadlines. You only have two years from the accident date to file a car accident claim. Failure to file by the deadline generally precludes any financial recovery.

What to Do After a Minor Car Accident

Even minor accidents require careful handling to avoid long-term issues. After a minor car accident, follow the same essential steps: ensure safety, seek medical attention, document the scene, report the incident to your insurer, and seek the counsel of an attorney.

In addition, have your vehicle inspected by a professional, even if the damage appears minimal. Minor issues can lead to costly repairs later or affect your car’s resale value. 

Let Us Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident

If you or a loved one has been in a car accident in Virginia, contact Merrick Brock today. We know that life after a car accident can feel chaotic, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our dedicated team fights relentlessly to protect your rights.  

Don’t settle for less than what you deserve—let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation and discover the difference a trusted advocate can make.

Posted In: Personal Injury