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Legally Protecting Yourself after a Topeka Car Accident

Car Accident
Patton and Patton Car Accident Attorneys

Legally Protecting Yourself after a Topeka Car Accident.

According to KSNT, two people were injured and taken to the hospital after their Honda was hit by a truck in July 2017. The truck crossed the centerline as the Honda traveled in the opposite direction. The truck driver was not injured.

No one expects to be a victim of a car accident while traveling to and from their destination in Topeka. However, car accidents do happen. The most important part of being involved in a car accident is what happens after a car accident. What a car accident victim does after an accident can be the difference between collecting money for their injuries and losing their personal injury case.

The Immediate Tasks of Protecting Legal Rights after a Topeka Car Accident

Immediately after the car accident, pull over to the side of the road. If the other driver flees the scene, there is nothing an accident victim can do about it. Check for injuries. The accident victim should make a note of any injuries they or their passengers may have.

Call Topeka police. They should come to the scene so a police report can be made. If they do not determine, determine how to file a police report. The report allows a driver to protect their legal rights when filing a claim because it has vital information about the accident.

If the driver who caused the scene is still there, be sure to exchange contact and insurance information. It is vital to obtain information like their name, phone number, and insurance information to know who to sue.

It is also important to obtain contact information from a witness who saw the accident happen. They will be helpful in any lawsuit against the at-fault driver. For instance, they provide supportive evidence to help win or settle the case.

Take pictures of the accident scene and any injuries. These pictures will help determine negligence in a car accident case. If the accident victim is too injured, but their passenger is to, let them take the pictures. Also, if pictures can’t be taken at that moment, try to take them as soon as possible.

Contact the car insurance company within 24 hours of the accident. Tell them information like:

  • Where and when the car accident happened
  • The parties involved
  • If a police report was filed
  • Any car accident injuries

 

Do not share any other information with the car insurance company. Anything discussed can be used against the driver if the claim must be resolved in court.

Seek Medical Assistance Immediately 

One of the biggest mistakes a car accident victim makes is not going to the hospital or doctor after the accident. They may feel fine. They do not think they are injured. However, symptoms of injuries often are not immediate. The injury can occur immediately, but the adrenaline from being in an accident prevents the accident victim from feeling the pain for days.

When an accident victim does not seek medical treatment, they can decrease the amount they may be awarded. Also, it makes it easier for the wrongful party to claim they did not cause any injuries.

Seek the Help of Patton & Patton for Help with Your Car Accident

The last step to take after a car accident is to contact a lawyer for legal representation. Contact Patton & Patton for help protecting your legal rights and getting the money you deserve. Contact us.

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