A negligent driver has now injured you in a van accident. What are you planning to do right now? Immediately following a car accident generally, you may feel stressed and dazed, and you may be unable to concentrate. Your health should be the most important priority in your immediate life. Therefore, if you decide to file a compensation claim following a van accident, there are steps you can take that could prove to be highly beneficial. If possible, this guide will walk you through the most crucial steps you can take to help yourself and your case in the minutes, days, and weeks after an accident.
Get to Safety and Check for Injuries
Get out of the way of traffic and find a safe place as soon as possible. If you continue to be in the path of moving vehicles, you risk causing a collision or suffering further injuries.
Next, evaluate the injuries to determine if there are any serious injuries or if an emergency exists. If you are still conscious but have injuries that prevent you from moving, skip this step and move on to the next one, which is to contact the police.
If you do not receive medical treatment at the scene of the accident, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. When a collision occurs, the shock may obscure some injuries. Symptoms may not appear right away, as in the case of traumatic brain injuries. If you visit a doctor, they will be able to diagnose and treat your injuries, which will not only help you recover faster but also support your future claim.
Consult an Experienced Lawyer
Van accidents can be traumatic and life-changing experiences, causing physical and emotional pain as well as financial stress. We strongly advise seeking the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney in such a situation. You can receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages if you hire an experienced attorney who can guide you through the complex legal system and assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve. If the accident involves an Amazon van, you can also contact an Amazon accident lawyer.
In the aftermath of a van accident, the assistance of an experienced attorney can prove critical. They will investigate the case on your behalf, collect evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies because they have the necessary knowledge and skills. In addition, they can help you understand your legal rights and options, as well as walk you through the process of filing a lawsuit if necessary.
Document the Accident
Take pictures of everything you need to before moving the vehicles. If you have a camera, make use of it. Nowadays, photos taken with a mobile phone not only look great, but they also automatically record the time and date. You should photograph all vehicles from various angles, and you should try to include images of the street lanes, skid marks, number plates, any unusual conditions like snow or ice, and any warning signs or traffic signals.
Exchange Information with Other Drivers If It's Safe
Exchange information with the other drivers if safe. Make sure you are in a safe location, away from the side of the road, and secure yourself. Collect contact information, license plate numbers, make and model, insurance companies, and policy numbers for all vehicles involved in the incident. Additionally, it is advisable to gather the contact details of any individuals who observed the accident.
Do Not Admit Guilt and Remain Calm
Until you are certain of what happened and what caused the accident, you should avoid accepting responsibility for the incident's immediate aftermath. Saying "I'm sorry" could make you accountable for the accident. Despite not being a legal admission of guilt, if you decide to file a claim, it could still work against you.
Maintain your composure, and do not allow the other party to put pressure on you to accept responsibility for the incident.
Likewise, avoid pointing fingers at anyone. Even if you know they were in the wrong, maintain your composure. A roadside argument will only make matters worse.
Call Your Insurer to Report the Accident
In some states, car accident claims may involve multiple insurance companies. These insurance companies may include both your no-fault insurance and the liability insurance of the driver who caused the accident. You must contact your own insurance company as soon as possible following the accident to protect the rights granted to you by the policy. Most policies require this notification as soon as possible after an accident.
