Steps to Take After an Indianapolis Car Accident

A motor vehicle accident can stop you in your tracks, leaving you with serious injuries that require extensive medical care. At Vaughn A. Wamsley, we understand how difficult this time can be for you and your family.

For over 30 years, our Indianapolis car accident lawyer has been helping people just like you get the support and compensation they deserve. We believe no one should have to go through the aftermath of a crash alone. For this reason, we are here to help you get justice.

Steps to Take After an Indianapolis Car Accident

If you have been in a car accident in Indianapolis, taking the right steps afterward is key to protecting your health and building a strong case.

Ensure Safety First

The first thing you want to do after a crash is ensure your safety and the safety of others. Move to a safe area, if possible, away from traffic. If your car is drivable, pull it to the side of the road. This helps prevent further accidents or injuries.

Check for Injuries

First, check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If someone is hurt, call 911 right away. It is crucial to call for help regardless, as some symptoms can develop or worsen over time.

Call the Police

Regardless of the severity of the accident, always contact law enforcement. A police report is a vital piece of evidence for insurance claims and potential legal action. It ensures the facts are documented accurately.

Stay Calm and Collected

Emotions often run high after an accident, but it’s important to stay calm. Avoid arguing or admitting fault to anyone at the scene. Keep conversations factual and focused on gathering necessary information.

Turn on Hazard Lights

Switch on your hazard lights to warn other drivers of the accident. This simple action can help prevent additional collisions while you handle the situation.

Document the Scene

Thoroughly documenting the scene of an accident is crucial and can greatly impact the success of an insurance claim or legal case. Clear, detailed evidence often makes all the difference. To ensure you’re prepared, follow these steps:

Take Photos or Videos

Use your phone to capture clear images of the accident scene. Include vehicle damage, license plates, traffic signs, marks on the road, and any injuries on your body that you can see. These photos can provide valuable evidence for your claim.

Exchange Information

Politely exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved. Make sure to record their name, phone number, address, and insurance policy details.

Gather Witness Contacts

If there are witnesses to the accident, ask for their names and contact information. Witness statements can help clarify what happened if liability is disputed.

Take Notes

Write down your own account of the accident. Include details like the time, location, weather conditions, and how the accident occurred. These notes can refresh your memory when speaking to insurance companies or an attorney.

Seek Medical Attention

Seeking medical attention after a car accident is essential. Start by visiting an emergency room or urgent care facility immediately. A doctor can evaluate you for hidden injuries and document your condition, which is important for your recovery and insurance claim. Make sure to mention any discomfort, no matter how minor it seems.

Follow up with your primary care physician or specialist and stick to all prescribed treatments if needed. Keeping detailed medical records will help you recover and provide strong evidence for your injury claim if you pursue legal action.

Notify the Authorities and Insurance

Notifying the proper authorities and your insurance company is critical after a car accident. This ensures the incident is officially recorded and helps streamline the claims process. This involves the following:

File a Police Report

If an officer responds to the scene, make sure they file an official police report. Request a copy for your records, as this document will support your claim.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance provider immediately, even if you believe you were not at fault. Provide them with all necessary information, including photos, witness details, and the police report.

Track Expenses and Legal Considerations

Other important things you should do after an accident include:

Track Expenses and Damages

Keep a detailed log of all accident-related expenses. This includes medical bills, car repair costs, and lost wages due to missed work. These records will help calculate your total damages.

Understand Indiana’s Fault Laws

Indiana operates under a fault-based system, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages. This makes gathering evidence and proving liability crucial to your case.

Stay Informed About Deadlines

Be aware of Indiana’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can forfeit your right to seek compensation.

Additional Steps for Protecting Your Claim

Taking additional steps after an accident can help strengthen your claim and protect your right to fair compensation. These proactive measures can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.

• Avoid Social Media Posts: Refrain from discussing the accident or posting photos on social media. Insurance adjusters and opposing attorneys may use your posts against you to downplay your injuries or discredit your claim.
• Review Your Insurance Policy: Take time to understand your auto insurance policy. Knowing your coverage limits and responsibilities will help you handle the claims process effectively.

If you’ve been injured, or if there is a dispute over fault, consulting an Indianapolis car accident lawyer can make a significant difference in your case. Our Indiana personal injury attorneys can take care of negotiations with insurance companies, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Know the Common Causes of Car Accidents in Indianapolis

Understanding the common causes of car accidents can help you provide crucial details to your attorney. In Indianapolis, many accidents result from:

• Speeding
• Driving while distracted
• Drunk driving
• Following too closely
• Failing to follow traffic signals

Sharing your observations about the other driver’s behavior or road conditions can strengthen your case.

Dealing with Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers

If you’re involved in an accident with a driver who lacks adequate insurance, you may still have options for recovering compensation. Indiana law requires all drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage unless they explicitly opt out in writing.

This type of coverage is designed to protect you when the at-fault driver cannot fully cover your losses. If necessary, your attorney can guide you through filing a claim against your insurance policy to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

In addition to medical expenses, property damage is often a significant concern after an accident. Repair costs, towing fees, and rental car expenses can quickly add up, leaving you with unexpected financial burdens.

To prepare for your claim, keeping detailed records, including repair shop estimates, towing receipts, and rental car invoices is important. Your attorney can work on your behalf, negotiating with the insurance company to ensure your vehicle is repaired to proper standards or replaced fairly, giving you peace of mind during a challenging time.

Returning to Normal Life After an Accident

Recovering from a car accident can be a long process, but seeking support from medical professionals, legal advisors, and loved ones can ease the burden. Focus on following your treatment plan and staying organized with your legal and insurance claims.

Call Our Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Indianapolis, don’t face the legal process alone. At Vaughn A. Wamsley, we’re here to provide compassionate, experienced representation to help you secure the compensation you need.

Contact our Indianapolis car accident lawyer today for a free consultation. Let us guide you through this challenging time and fight for the justice you deserve.