In 2016 alone, there were more than 129,000 car accidents in the state of Wisconsin.
Even when there are no fatalities, a car accident is still a terrifying experience and it can be difficult to know what to do after one occurs.
The first minutes and days after a bad car accident are actually the most crucial, especially if you plan on pursuing legal action. You want to do your best to keep a clear head. That way you can gather all the information you might need later on.
Having a simple checklist of what to do following a car accident can make it easier for you to stay calm if you do experience one. Read on to learn about the five actions you should take as soon as possible.
1. Seek Medical Attention for Anyone Injured in a Bad Car Accident
If you or any other passengers were injured as the result of a bad car accident, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do feel fine at the scene, you should still plan to see a doctor as soon as possible.
It is very common for someone in a car accident to feel fine at the scene, only to have injuries and pain present themselves a few days later. In order to pursue legal action at any point, you will need documentation of your injuries and of the medical attention you received.
2. Contact Police to File an Accident Report
Even if a car accident doesn’t appear to have caused major damage, you should always contact the police to file an accident report. It’s important to have an official record of the accident, and the police may be able to determine who was at fault.
The police may also have information about the other driver that could be useful to you in building a legal case. For example, if that person was driving on an expired license or registration.
3. Take Pictures of the Scene
Taking photos at the scene of the accident can strengthen a legal case and help support your version of what happened. A smartphone or a digital camera kept in the glove box will work well for this.
Try to get pictures of:
- Any damage to the exterior of your car and any other car(s) involved in the accident
- The position of the vehicles. Include landmarks, street signs, etc., in the photos for points of reference
- License plates
- Interior damage
- Any skid marks or debris left on the road
4. Write Down What Happened
As soon as you are able, you should create a record of exactly what you believe happened before, during, and immediately after the accident. Write down everything you remember about what the cars were doing and how people reacted.
If there are witnesses available and willing to talk, try to get statements from them and/or take down their contact information to follow up at a later date.
5. Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
Contacting a qualified car accident lawyer in Milwaukee is your best chance of getting the compensation you deserve. If you are injured and need medical attention, the liable party should be responsible for compensating you for bills, rehab, lost wages, etc.
A car accident lawyer will fight to make sure you get what you deserve and the at-fault party faces the appropriate consequences.
Don’t Let a Bad Car Accident Cause Even More Harm
Being in a bad car accident is hard enough, especially when you know you aren’t at fault. Don’t let things spiral out of control. Stay calm and take the immediate actions necessary to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Have you been in a bad car accident in Milwaukee? If so, and you’re ready to talk to a car accident lawyer, contact us today.