What To Do if Your Loved One Was Injured or Killed in a Negligent Car Accident

Experiencing the trauma of a loved one being involved in a car accident can be difficult. The pain and confusion can be even more profound when another’s negligence causes the accident.

The grief and shock can make it difficult to determine the next steps. Here are things you should do with the help of a car accident attorney to facilitate justice for your loved one:

Get Immediate Medical Attention

Car accidents can often result in injuries that aren’t immediately apparent. These can range from internal injuries to traumatic brain injuries that might not immediately present visible symptoms.

By seeking immediate medical attention, you can make sure these hidden injuries are diagnosed promptly, preventing them from escalating into severe health complications.

Medical records can serve as tangible proof that the injuries sustained were a direct result of the accident. Delaying or refusing medical treatment can weaken your claim, making it difficult to prove the injuries weren’t pre-existing.

Report the Accident to the Police

In many jurisdictions, it’s legally required to report a car accident, especially if it involves serious injuries or fatalities. A police report can provide an official record of the incident.

This documentation includes details about the accident, such as the date, time, location, involved parties, observed damages, and any apparent injuries. Insurance companies require a police report to process claims related to car accidents. 

The report can help insurers determine liability and the extent of damages, which are significant factors in determining compensation amounts.

In case of a lawsuit, whether it’s a personal injury case or a wrongful death claim, the police report can serve as a piece of evidence.

It can help establish the facts of the accident and might contain information about the negligent party, which could be decisive for the car accident attorney during the court proceedings.

Seek Emotional Support and Counseling

The sudden loss or injury of a loved one can trigger a profound sense of grief and traumatic stress. Professional counselors and psychologists are trained to provide one with practical strategies for managing stress. 

In some jurisdictions, it’s possible to recover damages for emotional distress following a car accident. This can include compensation for therapy or counseling costs related to dealing with the trauma. An experienced attorney can guide you through this process. 

Notify Insurance Companies

Most insurance policies require you to report any accidents immediately. Failure to do so could result in your claim being denied. Notifying your insurance company helps to create an official record of the incident.

If the accident was due to another driver’s negligence, your insurance company can help you file a claim. They can also assist you with any immediate medical payments or car repairs under your policy coverage before recouping these costs from the at-fault party’s insurer.

Consult With a Car Accident Attorney

Personal injury law can be complex, and navigating it without legal expertise can be challenging. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process, explaining your rights, potential compensation, and the steps to protect your interests.

To secure compensation during a personal injury case, proving that the other party was negligent is necessary. This requires gathering evidence, including police reports, witness testimonies, and expert opinions. 

A personal injury attorney has the experience and resources to collect this evidence effectively. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. An attorney can negotiate with insurance adjusters, confirming that you receive fair compensation for your losses.

Sometimes, filing a lawsuit to pursue fair compensation may be necessary. An attorney can represent your interests in court, presenting a compelling case based on the evidence and their knowledge of personal injury law.