What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident

The moments following a car accident can be confusing and overwhelming. However, the steps you take can have a significant impact on the outcome of your claim. After the accident, your first priority should be seeking medical attention to address any injuries. If your injuries are significant, call 911.

Even if you do not believe your injuries are severe, it is essential to call the police to the scene so they can create a report for your accident. The police report can be an essential objective piece of evidence that will become critical to your claim for compensation.

Accident Investigation and Insurance Research

Next, you'll need to consult with a personal injury attorney who focuses on car accident cases. This legal professional will review your evidence, help you understand your rights, and explain the strengths and weaknesses of your case. An attorney will also advise you on the feasibility of pursuing a lawsuit based on the specifics of your accident and the applicable laws in your state.

They will also conduct research into yours and the at fault driver’s insurance policies to best determine how to move forward and support your case.

The initial stage of a car accident lawsuit is all about preparation. This includes gathering evidence, documenting injuries, and understanding the full impact of the accident on your life. Photos from the accident scene, witness statements, and medical reports form the foundation of your case. It's crucial to collect and preserve this information quickly, as it will play a significant role in supporting your car accident claim.

During this time, the insurance company will also be conducting their own investigation into your case and establish their own timeline of events and liable parties. Insurance companies are interested in protecting their bottom lines and typically attempt to pay victims the lowest amount possible for their injuries.

It's important to note that each state has its own deadlines for filing a car accident lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations. Missing this deadline can prevent you from pursuing compensation, so timely action is essential. This time frame is usually two years from the date of the accident.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

One of the most important steps in the car accident lawsuit timeline is recovering from your injuries. Be sure to attend all medical appointments and to follow your doctor’s advice. While keeping up with your recovery has undeniable health benefits, it can also provide crucial evidence for your claim through medical documentation.

To further support your claim and establish the damages you have endured, you can ask your physician to sign a release form so your medical documentation can be shared with third parties such as your attorney.

Understanding the elements that make up an auto accident is essential during your recovery and rehabilitation process. Your attorney can then use this critical evidence to build a strong claim on your behalf.

Pre-Trial Preparation and Final Compensation Negotiations

Based on your needs and your attorney’s investigation, you may decide whether you wish to proceed with legal action. Once you decide to proceed with a lawsuit, your attorney will file a complaint on your behalf. This document outlines your allegations against the defendant (typically the other driver or their insurance company) and states the damages you are seeking. The defendant will have the opportunity to respond, setting the stage for the pre-trial phase.

During the discovery phase, both sides exchange information and evidence. Discovery is designed to clarify the facts of the case and eliminate surprises, allowing both parties to build their legal strategies based on a clear understanding of the evidence.

Pre-trial motions may also be filed during this time. These can address legal questions about the admissibility of evidence or other procedural matters. Both legal teams will also engage in negotiations to see if a favorable final compensation can be reached. In many cases, the parties may agree to a final compensation amount during this phase, avoiding the need for a trial.

If the case does not settle, it will proceed to trial. At trial, both sides present their evidence and arguments in front of a judge or jury. The trial phase can be unpredictable and stressful, but it is typically where the most substantial compensation is awarded if your case is strong.

After the trial, there may be a period of post-trial motions or appeals, where either side can challenge the court's decision or certain aspects of the trial process. This phase can extend the timeline of your lawsuit but is an important part of ensuring that all legal avenues are thoroughly explored.

Most car accident lawsuits are resolved before reaching trial, typically through negotiations. These agreements are legally binding and typically result in quicker compensation for you. Your attorney plays a crucial role in these negotiations, striving to secure a final compensation that adequately covers your damages and losses.

Choosing to pursue a car accident lawsuit can be a significant decision. Partnering with the Auto Accident Team can simplify this process. We connect you with skilled attorneys who will evaluate your case for free and guide you through every step of the lawsuit. Our network of attorneys is committed to maximizing your compensation and works on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t pay unless you win.

With best-in-class legal support, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the complexities of your car accident case. If you're ready to start the process or just want more information, please visit our contact form or call us at (877) 528-2420 . Together, we can work toward a resolution that compensates you for your losses and helps you move forward after an accident.