It’s easy to become flustered in the aftermath of a serious accident. But if you want to protect your ability to recover from your injuries and secure the financial resources to which you’re entitled, then you have to know which steps to take in the minutes, days, weeks and months ahead. That’s why in this post we want to give a step-by-step guide of actions you should take after a wreck. Hopefully then you’ll feel better prepared to tackle the process ahead of you while protecting your interests.
What really happens after an accident in Tennessee?
There’s a lot of activity after a serious accident. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most important steps that should be taken in your case:
- Checking on safety: The first thing that should be done after a crash is to check on the safety of those involved. This could include assisting in removing individuals from the wreckage and moving out of the roadway.
- Calling the police: Your next step after your wreck should be to call the police. This way a formal report of the accident will be generated, and witnesses will be given the opportunity to provide a statement. Calling 9-1-1 will also ensure that those who need immediate medical treatment will receive it.
- Securing medical care: If you’ve been injured in your accident, then you need to seek medical treatment. Be sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations, too, so that you’re doing everything possible to fully recover from your injuries and so that you generate a record of the treatment you’ve received and the ongoing care that you may need.
- Taking pictures: You need evidence to support your personal injury claim. Pictures of the accident scene and your injuries can prove valuable in your case. If you’re unable to take those photographs yourself, see if a family member or friend can assist.
- Filing an insurance claim: Your first stop to recovering the compensation needed to offset accident-related losses is to file a claim with your insurance provider or the at-fault driver’s insurance company. When you do so, expect the insurance company to conduct its own investigation into accident causation as well as the nature and extent of your injuries.
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit: If you’re not getting what you deserve from your insurance claims, then additional legal action may be warranted. Here, you can work with your attorney to gather evidence and develop strong legal arguments that position you for success.
- Navigating the discovery process: As you head into your personal injury case, each side will engage in discovery where they try to learn what the other side knows and intends to present as evidence. This can include gathering documentation and deposing witnesses.
- Entering negotiations: If you pursue legal action, then your case will head into settlement negotiations before going to trial. If you’re well-prepared, then you might be able to secure a fair and favorable outcome that avoids the need for litigation.
- Advocating at trial: One of the last steps after an accident, other than continually focusing on your recovery, is to take your case to trial, if needed. Here, a jury will hear evidence and decide who is to blame for the accident and how much compensation should be awarded.
As you can see, there are multiple steps to navigate in the aftermath of a car accident. Each one can have its nuances, and each one has the potential to impact the outcome of your case. So, as you get your bearings and start to think about your next steps after a Tennessee accident, consider discussing the matter with a professional so that you can confidently pursue the path that best positions you for the outcome you deserve.