Car accidents are traumatic, especially when you've been injured. A few simple things to remember, though, can help you maximize your recovery in the event of legal action.
1
Take Pictures
You should always have a camera (a disposable one is fine) in your glove compartment. If it is safe to do so and you can do so without pain, you should take pictures of the positioning of the cars, any traffic signals, the damage, the road conditions, and the scene of the accident – as many as you can. This is the one and only chance to record the exact scene at the time of the accident.
2
Gather and Observe Information
Get the name, address, telephone number, and insurance information for the other driver(s). Get the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of any witnesses or passengers. Once the police are on the scene, get the officer’s name and/or badge number and the report number. Also, listen. Listen to what the other driver says (do they admit fault?) Do they argue with their passengers? Is their radio on? Were they talking on a phone? Smoking? You may see or hear something that could help your case later on.
3
Go to the Doctor
If you are in any pain what-so-ever, you should go to the Hospital from the scene. Never, ever, exaggerate your injuries, but do not minimize them either. If you do not go to the Hospital from the scene (either via ambulance or driving yourself), you should go as soon as you experience pain.
4
Don't Talk to Anyone
Do not, however, talk to anyone from the other driver’s insurance company until you obtain an attorney. Save everything they send you and make note of the times they call, but do not give a statement to them until you have your attorney.
5
Keep a Journal
It is very helpful for your case to keep a journal. Write down anything you saw at the scene, when you went to the doctors and which doctors you saw. Memories fade, but if you write it down, it’ll help your attorneys down the road. Under Illinois law, if your case goes to Court, this journal will be seen by the attorneys for the other driver, so keep it brief and factual – names and dates, who said what to whom. Don’t make things up, don’t exaggerate, and don’t try to make up “facts” that you think might help your case, as it will just hurt you down the road.
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