Essential Actions to Ensure Your Rights Are Protected

Experiencing a motor vehicle accident can be traumatic and disorienting. However, the steps you take immediately after the accident can significantly impact your ability to recover losses and protect your rights. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do if you find yourself in a motor vehicle accident in Pittsburgh.

Ensure Safety

First and foremost, prioritize the safety of all parties involved. If you can, move vehicles to the side of the road to avoid obstructing traffic and to ensure safety. Turn on hazard lights and set up emergency cones or triangles if available.

Check for Injuries

Check yourself and others for injuries. Do not attempt to move anyone who appears to be injured unless there is an immediate safety threat (e.g., fire). Call 911 immediately to report the accident and any injuries. Emergency services in Pittsburgh are trained to handle such situations with the urgency and care they require.

Call the Police

Regardless of the severity of the accident, it is crucial to call the police. A police report is invaluable when dealing with insurance claims and legal issues. The report will document the scene and provide an official account of the accident, which can be critical if there are disputes about what happened.

Exchange Information

While waiting for the police, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s). This includes names, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and basic insurance details. If there are witnesses, get their contact information as well; their accounts might be crucial in resolving disputes about the accident.

Document the Scene

Take photographs of the accident scene from different angles, showcasing the damage to all vehicles involved, the overall scene, road conditions, traffic signs, and any injuries sustained. These photos can provide crucial evidence for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, it’s important to visit a doctor after an accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, might not be immediately apparent. Medical records will also serve as important evidence if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Be honest about the incident and provide them with comprehensive details. Failing to report the accident promptly might result in a denial of coverage.

Keep Detailed Records

Keep all accident-related documents and information organized. This includes the police report, all correspondence with insurance companies, receipts for any expenses incurred due to the accident (medical treatments, towing, rental cars, etc.), and a record of any related doctor visits.

Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer

If the accident involves significant vehicle damage or physical injury, or if the liability is contested, it is advisable to consult a personal injury lawyer experienced in handling motor vehicle accidents in Pittsburgh. A lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for damages and injuries.

Following these steps after a motor vehicle accident in Pittsburgh can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you are appropriately compensated for any losses. Remember, the actions you take immediately after an accident can significantly influence the outcome of insurance and legal processes.