In that moment after a car accident, when your brain is coming to terms with what happened, it can be confusing to know what to do. You may be unsure how to protect yourself physically from further injury while also ensuring that there is a way to document what happened to you so you are not held at fault.
In those situations, knowing the steps to take after a car accident in Boulder, CO, can be critically important. Focus on these steps while always prioritizing your safety, and then call a Boulder car accident attorney from Purvis | Thomson, LLP.
In nearly all serious accidents, your first step should be to get yourself out of harm’s way if needed and possible, and then call 911. Doing so allows you to get the support you need along the way. If there are serious injuries and property damage, remain at the scene of the accident until police arrive.
When safe to do so, take photos of everything you can. That includes:
It is also necessary to get the name and contact information of the other driver. You should also request their car insurance information so that this information can be used to file a claim later. You will need to provide your own information as well.
At this point, your priority is your health. Get to the hospital to have a full examination, telling the ER team that you were in a car accident. This enables them to work to pinpoint any hidden or non-obvious injuries you have, alongside any notable wounds. By getting help immediately, it is possible to protect your right to compensation later while also protecting your health.
If you did not do so at the time of the accident, file a police report as soon as possible about what happened. Only tell the police facts about what occurred, such as what happened. Do not interject any opinions or any details you cannot substantiate. Avoid making statements that you were not paying attention or that you are sorry for what happened. It is important to file a police report with accuracy, which is why it is better not to wait in these situations.
While you can alert the insurance company of the at-fault party of your injuries and right to file a claim, do not file that claim yet. Avoid telling the insurance company anything but the facts of what happened. Avoid providing information about your injuries or losses. Rather, inform the insurance company that you are retaining legal guidance to help you navigate the process of filing a claim.
At Purvis | Thomson, we fight for you and your rights after a car accident. After you receive medical care, your next step is to contact our car accident lawyer in Boulder, CO, for a free consultation. Let us help you build your case, claim, and negotiate fair compensation for your losses.
