The immediate aftermath of an auto accident can be disorienting and overwhelming. As you assess yourself and others at the scene for any injuries, you’ll likely face numerous questions and uncertainties. Who will pay for your car repairs? How will you afford medical care? Will you need to miss work because of your injuries? How and when should you alert your insurance company about the accident? While the most important step you can take is to seek the necessary medical attention, here are some additional tips for what you can do following an auto accident in the Portland area to ensure that the recovery process moves forward as smoothly as possible.
Actions to Take at the Scene of the Accident
While it’s natural to feel somewhat shocked and overwhelmed in the moments after the collision, try to take some deep breaths while you assess yourself for any injuries. If you can move, take a look where your vehicles are; if you can move them out of the road to safety, do so. If you or someone else at the scene requires immediate medical attention, call for an ambulance. While you wait, it’s a good idea to exchange information with the other parties involved in the accident. Share contact and insurance information, but avoid apologies or lengthy conversations, as this information could be used later on in an attempt to undermine your credibility or deny you compensation.
Reporting the Accident
Depending on the circumstances of the accident, the police may arrive to investigate the scene and create an official police report. In the Portland area, however, the police usually only respond to serious crashes involving fatalities, intoxicated drivers, hit and run accidents, or other severe situations. If the police do not arrive, make sure to document the scene as thoroughly as possible; take pictures of the vehicles, make note of the weather or the conditions of the road, and gather any additional information that may be useful in the future, should you decide to pursue a personal injury claim. It’s also essential that you contact your auto insurance company to report the incident. Your insurance company will ask you a series of questions and investigate the accident in order to determine whether to process your medical, property damage, or wage loss claims. Should you encounter any difficulties, it’s highly recommended that you contact a knowledgeable car accident attorney to discuss your options for obtaining compensation.
Contacting a Trusted Oregon Attorney
Although working with an auto accident lawyer is not mandatory, many car accident victims find that doing so gives them the relief and reassurance they need during this challenging time. Resolving a car accident claim and obtaining the compensation you need to get your life back on track can be a complex and time-consuming process, which can prove particularly difficult for those who need to focus on their physical recovery. Instead of spending your energy and time on lengthy conversations with insurance adjusters, allow your attorney to step in and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Interested in learning more about how to collect compensation following an auto accident in the Portland, Oregon area? Call Henderson Taylor Law Firm today at (360) 737-1478 to get started with a trusted and compassionate personal injury lawyer.