Most car wrecks happen in split seconds. One moment you are driving home after a fruitful day at work, and the next you are injured and in pain. If you are involved in a car accident that was caused by someone else’s mistakes, you may be entitled to compensation for the resulting economic and non-economic damages.
However, the steps you take immediately following the car crash can have a profound impact on the outcome of your case. Here are two things you need to do after a car crash:
1. Call the police
Massachusetts law requires that you call the police to the scene if the accident in question results in death, personal injury or property damage in excess of $1,000. Thus, you’re generally required to make that call.
Calling the police to the scene also ensures that they investigate the accident and write an unbiased report regarding whom they believe bears the greatest responsibility for the accident.
2. Seek treatment
It is not uncommon to walk out of a car accident with hidden yet deadly injuries – and this can be your worst nightmare. Even if you feel absolutely fine, it is important that you visit the ER immediately following the accident.
Some internal injuries take days or even weeks to manifest. Seeking treatment immediately ensures that such hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated in time before they can escalate into something more serious. It also ensures that you obtain a medical report that directly ties your injuries to the accident in question.
By taking the right steps after a car accident, you will be boosting your odds of holding the liable party accountable for their negligent actions and receiving the compensation you deserve.
