What you do immediately following an accident can impact your chances of successfully filing an insurance claim or seeking damages from an at-fault driver. Bercovitch Law Offices, P.C has extensive experience helping people who live in the Philadelphia area. If you need a car accident attorney, we have a proven track record when it comes to helping our clients collect the compensation they’re entitled to. Here are some of the things that you can do to help your injury lawyer build a solid case:
Remain at the Scene
Philadelphia prosecutes drivers who leave the scene of an accident, regardless of whether they’re at fault for the accident. Remaining on the scene isn’t just lawful; it can help you later on when your injury lawyer needs to argue your need for compensation.
Prevent Contaminating the Scene of the Accident
Accident scene investigators need to have access to your crash scene as it was immediately following an accident. If you can, set up flares and use your emergency lights to encourage other motorists to avoid the site of your accident.
Document the Damage
Taking plenty of pictures can help your car accident attorney with your case because those photos can be used during the process of accident reconstruction. The location and angles of dents, the damage done to your vehicle, and other considerations provided through photographic evidence make it easier to determine who was indeed at fault for the accident.
Call the Police
Having a record of the accident is extremely important. A police officer on the scene will take your statement and get the other party’s side of the story as well. These records can be accessed later by your injury lawyer during the process of discovery.
Do Not Refuse Medical Treatment
There are many injuries sustained in auto accidents that don’t show immediate symptoms. You could have a concussion or whiplash and feel fine in the hours following your accident. Some injuries could remain asymptomatic for weeks. If you receive medical treatment, you’re not only risking severe health complications later, but you’re not getting a medical record that a car accident attorney can use to justify your need for compensation.
Obtain the Other Driver’s Information
Even if the police collect this information on their own, it’ll help you with your case to know the other party’s name, address, phone number, and insurance information in case you need it for an insurance claim. Your injury lawyer can obtain this information from the police report but will be able to work faster if you can provide it during your consultation.
Call Your Insurance Company
It’s important to let your insurance companies know you’ve been in an accident. It’s in your car insurance company’s interests to assist you if you’re not at fault, and you may need to file a claim if the other driver is uninsured or lacks the assets to pay your claim. You can also file a claim with your health insurance provider to cover your medical expenses.
Reach Out to a Car Accident Attorney in Philadelphia
An experienced lawyer can review your case and help you work with the other party and the insurance companies that need to be involved in making sure you get the compensation you deserve. Bercovitch Law Offices, P.C. is a small practice serving Philadelphia, which means our lawyers can provide your case with the time and attention needed to address your needs and concerns. We have a long track record of collecting compensation for our clients, so if you’ve been in an accident and live in the Philadelphia area, count on us to be in your corner. For more information about our practice areas or what our clients have to say, reach out to us today!
