In Topeka, auto accidents can get you in trouble if you aren’t sure how to handle the aftermath of the incident. What ensues and how things can possibly turn out largely depends on two factors: the seriousness of the crash and how you handle things immediately after the collision.
Unfortunately, most Topeka car wrecks leave confusion, shock, trauma, and pain when you’re injured in their wake. And it can be very hard to keep things in perspective when so much is happening. Here is a quick look at how you can gain control of the situation after a car wreck and ensure that things don’t go against you in the long run.
Ensure Safety
- Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If someone is seriously injured, call emergency services immediately.
- If everybody is safe, turn on the hazard lights to alert other drivers to the collision.
- If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further collisions.
Gather Information
- Get the names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information of the other driver(s) involved in the collision.
- Record the make, model, and license plate numbers of all vehicles involved.
- Nothing beats photographs when it comes to documenting the scene. Make sure to take pictures of the damaged vehicles, the road conditions, skid marks if any, weather conditions, license plates, and other identifying details, and any visible injuries.
- If there are any witnesses, ask for their names and contact information.
Report the Auto Accident to Topeka Authorities
- Call the Topeka police to report the car wreck so that they can document the incident and provide a police report.
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Most policies require you to report collisions within a specific time frame, often within 24 hours, so it’s important to do this promptly. Provide them with all the information you have gathered.
Seek Medical Attention:
- You should seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you don’t feel any pain. Adrenaline can mask injuries, and symptoms may not appear immediately. Often times, feeling fine doesn’t mean you are fine!
- Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s still advisable to seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not manifest until hours or even days after the collision.
- Keep a detailed record of your injuries and any medical treatment you receive.
10 Things to Avoid After a Topeka Auto Accident
- Don’t admit fault. In fact, don’t even apologize because this too can be perceived as an admission of fault.
- Don’t sign any documents or agreements at the scene of the collision, especially if you’re unsure of the terms.
- Don’t discuss the wreck with the other driver, as these conversations can be used against you later.
- Don’t discuss crash details with anyone other than your lawyer or your insurance company; this can harm your claim.
- Don’t leave the scene of the collision, as this is illegal and can result in serious consequences.
- Don’t ignore the prescribed medical treatment; this can be used against you in your claim.
- Don’t miss the deadlines for filing insurance claims and legal actions.
- Don’t talk to insurance adjusters without legal counsel.
- Don’t accept quick settlements.
- Don’t post about the collision on social media.
Utter chaos typically follows a Topeka auto collision, and you will need a calm and experienced Topeka personal injury attorney to guide you through the tricky situation. So, if you have been injured in a Topeka, Kansas, auto collision, call DeVaughn James Injury Lawyers in Topeka at 785-888-8888 or contact our Topeka office right away!
Fair compensation is your right, and our team of litigation-hardened attorneys will ensure that you receive the maximum benefits.