What Questions to Ask When You Have Been in an Auto Accident

A car accident can be a traumatic and jarring experience. After an accident, you may feel overwhelmed, especially if you have been seriously injured. However, it's vital to ask the right questions to protect your rights.

After you've been in an auto accident, your first priority should be the health and safety of everyone involved. Call 911 immediately. If everyone is okay and no immediate first aid is required, ask the other driver for his or her name, address, date of birth, phone number, email address, driver’s license number and insurance information. It is also a good idea to notify your loved ones so they are aware of what’s going on and can meet you if you need to seek medical attention.

These three important questions to ask after a car accident can help make a difficult time less stressful and allow you to navigate what comes next more easily.

Should I Call my Insurance Company?

The short answer is yes. After the police take a report and you have obtained the contact information of everyone involved, contact your insurance company to report the accident. The insurance adjuster will ask you questions about the details of what occurred. He or she will inquire about the scene of the accident, weather and road conditions, and ask many of the same questions that the police most likely asked for their report.

Your insurance company will also want information about the damage to the vehicles involved and contact information for the other driver and any witnesses.

Accurate details such as the date, time, and events surrounding your car accident are vital to your insurance claim. Stick to the facts of what happened and try not to let your opinions or emotions get the best of you. While speaking about the accident, refrain from saying things like, “it was my fault.” Even if you believe you were at fault, it may turn out that both drivers played a hand in causing the accident.

If you took any notes or photos at the scene of the accident, these can be helpful tools in relaying the facts when speaking with your insurance company.

If you have any questions about your policy or the claims process, do not hesitate to ask your agent. Knowledge is power, and if you know what is covered you can get an idea of the best course of action to take.

Should I Contact an Attorney?

After contacting your insurance company, call a car accident attorney who can assess your situation and help you determine the next steps to take. Whether you are at fault or not, an attorney can assist you in dealing with your insurance company and, if necessary, determine the most effective action to take against the negligent party.

What Questions Should I ask my Attorney?

Once you have contacted your attorney and relayed the details of the incident there a few important questions to ask after a car accident, including:

Do I have a case? An experienced car accident lawyer will be able to determine the best course of action and let you know upfront if it's worth filing a claim against the responsible party or their insurance company.

How much compensation can I expect? No two car accident cases are alike, and your attorney will be unable to provide a number until negotiations toward the end of the case. He or she can explain the coverage available and guide you through the case based on the facts and state of your injuries.

What is your strategy for representing me? Get the details your attorney’s plans regarding the steps involved for the case. It is essential to be well-informed know the ins and outs of how the case will progress. Speaking with your attorney about strategy can help you develop a solid relationship and build trust.

What do you need from me? Your attorney will advise you on the information and documents he or she needs. Getting your ducks in a row and providing your attorney with all facts and documentation in regarding the accident can ensure that insurance claims and/or necessary documentation is filed so you can get relief in the form of PIP benefits and transportation and medical costs.

We Can Help

If you have been injured and are unsure about questions to ask after a car accident, our knowledgeable attorneys will guide and support you through the aftermath of an accident and work hard to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact Lowman Law Firm in Citrus County at (352) 796-0016 or toll-free at (866) 9-LOWMAN.