Regardless of how cautious you are as a driver, accidents can still occur while traveling in Indianapolis or other parts of Indiana. While you cannot prevent negligent drivers from making reckless choices, you do have control over your actions following a collision. Nonetheless, the decisions you make after an accident will significantly impact any future property damage or personal injury claims.
According to Indiana Statute of Limitations law, it is necessary to resolve a car accident claim within two years from the date of the incident. Therefore, seek an Indianapolis Car Accident Attorney to help you avoid delays in taking appropriate measures.
Below are five steps to guide you through the chaotic time following a car accident.
Table of Contents
Get Medical Help
In the event of a car accident in Indiana, it is imperative to prioritize seeking immediate medical attention. Regardless of the apparent seriousness of your injuries, it is vital to seek the advice of a medical expert promptly.
The Indiana Department of Transportation reports that in 2019, there were over 200,000 traffic accidents in Indiana. These accidents caused 51,000 injuries and almost 850 fatalities. Accidents with low impacts may result in catastrophic injuries like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue injury.
After an accident, getting a medical checkup can help uncover any underlying issues and ensure they are treated immediately. It also offers crucial proof of your injuries, which is necessary for insurance claims and legal actions.
Call the Police
After assuring your safety, contact the police. No matter the accident’s seriousness, you must always involve the authorities.
According to Indiana law, drivers must call the police after every accident that causes more than $1,000 in property damage, injury, or death. If you don’t, you risk a fine or possible legal action.
Give the police complete information about the collision when you call, including the time and place, the number of vehicles involved, the location, and any injuries that may have occurred. A police officer dispatched to the scene will create an official report documenting the incident.
Exchange Information
It is essential to share information with the other accident victims. Collect the following information from each party:
- Full names
- Contact details
- License and plate numbers
- Insurance details
Obtain the contact information of any witnesses present at the accident scene, if applicable. In disputes or investigations, eyewitness testimony can be a valuable piece of evidence.
Take Photographs
Photographing the accident scene can help preserve evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Use a smartphone or any other tool at your disposal to take the following pictures:
- Vehicle damage from various angles
- Skid marks or road conditions
- Traffic signs and signals
- Injuries sustained by yourself or others involved
Take pictures of the accident scene right after it happened, before any vehicles are moved. This documentation may be essential for identifying the fault and estimating the severity of the damages.
Seek Legal Advice
It can be challenging to negotiate the legal intricacies of a car accident claim with insurance companies and adversaries. You can get the direction and defense you require by consulting with our experienced Indiana car accident lawyers.
A knowledgeable attorney is familiar with the specifics of Indiana’s insurance laws, claims procedures, and traffic regulations. They will examine your situation, weigh the evidence, and advise you on your choices for pursuing compensation.
Conclusion
Here are the essential steps you should take following a severe car accident. It is crucial to perform these steps fast.If you require expert legal assistance, please get in touch with our team today.