Suffering injuries during an automobile accident is a traumatic experience. Accident victims often do not know which steps to take immediately after an accident. Sometimes people may not be able to think clearly during the first moments after an automobile accident. However, if victims focus on remaining calm and doing everything in their power to remain safe, then it is likely that accident victims can take productive action after an automobile accident.
Our South Carolina car accident attorneys explore what to do after a car accident.
Check Yourself and All Passengers For Injuries
A collision may occur unexpectedly, and it can take a few minutes to determine if you suffered any injuries. Concussions may not produce symptoms immediately after an accident. However, you should focus on checking your body for lacerations and determining if any passengers in your vehicle are injured.
It may be difficult for you to move during the immediate aftermath of an automobile accident. If you believe it is impossible for you to move without injuring yourself, then you should remain calm and wait for emergency personnel to arrive. The presence of elevated levels of adrenaline and cortisol in the body can make it difficult for accident victims to recognize their injuries in the first moments after an accident.
Seek Medical Treatment As Soon As Possible
You must seek medical treatment after you are involved in an automobile accident. Sometimes, drivers and passengers may believe they have not suffered any injuries, but some injuries do not produce immediately discernible symptoms. Sometimes physical pain and other issues may have a delayed onset.
Insurance companies will also want to see that you have sought medical treatment for your injuries. Waiting for a long period of time to go to the hospital or doctor may harm any future civil lawsuit associated with the accident. Therefore, you should seek medical care even if you think you suffered only minor injuries.
Collect Any Evidence Related To The Automobile Accident
Video recordings and photographs can help you support your legal claims if you initiate a civil lawsuit. Environmental conditions at the accident scene may be helpful to your potential case. It is important for you to try and collect any relevant evidence regarding the accident in which you suffered injuries. You can photograph the other driver’s vehicle and any property damage which may indicate which party caused the accident.
It is also important to keep a journal of your injuries and their progression. You can write down your physical symptoms and how you are feeling on a daily basis. An injury journal can help you substantiate your claim for non-economic damages in your automobile accident case.
Contact a South Carolina Personal Injury Attorney
You need to seek out a personal injury attorney in South Carolina if you want to seek monetary compensation for your injuries. A skilled personal injury lawyer will be able to help you determine if you have any viable legal claims. Also, if you retain an attorney, you will be able to benefit from the attorney-client privilege. Insurance companies will be able to negotiate with your attorney while you focus on recovering from your injuries. Contact us today to learn more.
From law offices in Florence and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Willcox, Buyck & Williams, P.A. serves Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Garden City, the Grand Strand, and other communities throughout Florence County, Marion County, Horry County, Darlington County, and Georgetown County.