Brooke graduated from the University of Richmond School of Law after receiving her undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Brooke worked for five years in private practice with a law firm specializing in insurance defense litigation before becoming the trial litigator for Allstate Insurance Company in the metro Richmond area.
After the shock of experiencing a car accident, it is often difficult to know what to do after a car accident that is not your fault.
However, there are multiple steps you can take to protect your legal rights in the immediate aftermath of a car accident. After a car accident when it’s not your fault, knowing what to do feels overwhelming. Contact a personal injury attorney to protect your rights after a car accident.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident That Wasn’t Your Fault
If someone else caused a car accident resulting in you suffering injuries or property damage, you may wish to seek compensation for your losses. Knowing what to do after a car accident that is not your fault may serve to strengthen your claim for damages.
Document the Accident
If physically able, document the accident scene to the best of your ability. Documenting includes undertaking the following steps:
- Take photographs of the vehicles involved and the area around the scene of the accident;
- Obtain the names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information for all drives involved;
- Obtain the names and contact information of witnesses to the accident scene; and
- Write down your recollection of the events leading up to and during the accident.
It’s essential to obtain this information soon after an accident. Memories fade quickly, and recollections become less accurate over time. Additionally, witnesses may be difficult to locate if you do not obtain their information at the scene of the accident.
Seek Medical Assistance
A car accident may cause substantial damage to your vehicle but may also cause significant physical injuries. After a car accident, assess your physical state and seek medical assistance as soon as possible. In many situations, your minor injuries may indicate more significant bodily harm. Therefore, always seek the evaluation of a medical professional even if you believe you are unharmed.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance agent after a car accident that is not your fault. Notifying your insurance company of an accident allows you to begin the process of recovering. Most importantly, if the at-fault party in your accident is not insured, your insurance company will need to review your uninsured motorist coverage to cover your damages and, possibly, injuries.
Obtain a Copy of the Police Report
If the police reported to the scene of your accident, obtain a copy of the police report prepared by the responding officer. Carefully read over the report ensuring it accurately reflects the sequence of events. When the car accident police report reflects incorrect information, it’s vital to correct that information. A qualified car accident attorney in Richmond assists clients in obtaining and reviewing car accident police reports to correct any mistakes.
Recent Car Accident Settlement
The Case: Our client was rear-ended in two separate motor vehicle accidents within about 10 months of each other. He ended up having neck surgery that was partially attributed to both collisions. Both matters were settled for a combined amount of $475,000.
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that testimonials or reviews do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter, as the facts and circumstances of each case differ.
Contact Experienced Richmond Car Accident Attorneys
The attorneys at River Run Law understand the devastation you can face after a traumatic car accident. To get back on your feet and on the road to recovery, you need the assistance of qualified legal counsel to work diligently on your behalf.
The legal team at River Run Law provides aggressive legal representation to achieve fair financial compensation for our clients. We assist you every step of the way, so you can work on rebuilding your life.
Contact us today for a free consultation and review of your legal options.
Where You Can Find Our Richmond Office