Five Tips For Protecting Your Rights After a Car Accident

The aftermath of a car accident can be a confusing and stressful time. Seeking medical treatment, dealing with lost wages and other unexpected expenses, and worrying about repairs or replacement of your vehicle can be overwhelming.

Fortunately, you could be eligible to collect compensation for the harm you’ve suffered and losses you’ve incurred. If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Virginia, it is important to contact a skilled and compassionate injury lawyer as soon as possible to help you understand your rights and legal options.

Below are five tips for protecting your rights if you’ve been involved in a car accident in Fairfax, Manassas, or anywhere else in Virginia:

Call the Police

It is important to call the police after the car accident has occurred. Police will conduct an investigation, interview the parties involved, interview witnesses, and examine the accident scene. A police report typically describes who was at fault for the crash. If you don’t have a police report, you could run into a “he said, she said” scenario. While the other driver may say they were at fault at the accident scene, their story could change later. Don’t let this happen to you. Always call the police and make sure a report is made.

If you’ve been involved in a collision in Manassas or Fairfax, you’ll likely be dealing with the Manassas Police Department or the  Fairfax County Police Department.

Take Photos

Taking pictures of the scene of the accident can help build your claim. Make sure you get pictures from a variety of angles and distances. You can never have too many photos of the scene. You may be able to show signs of negligence, such as tire marks and road hazards. Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle. Also, snap pictures of your injuries.

Remain Silent

You have the right to refrain from giving a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster until you have had first spoken with a lawyer. We strongly advise that you not say anything to or sign anything from an insurance company until you have contacted a car accident attorney.

Keep All Records and a Pain Journal

 If you need medical treatment or vehicular repairs, make sure you hold on to all records. If you chose to file a claim, you will need records to substantiate your losses. It’s also a good idea to keep a pain journal. Take notes on your level of pain and the physical and psychological symptoms you are experiencing each day following the car accident.

Hire an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer

After a car accident, many complicated legal issues could arise. An experienced car accident attorney understands how to navigate these challenges. Trying to do it alone can impact your ability to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve. Retaining an attorney who has handled many car accidents before and understands what it takes to navigate the legal system will allow you to focus on your health and recovery. This gives you peace of mind in knowing you have someone to turn to with your questions and concerns.

Hurt in an Accident? Call Leary Law For Help

To learn more about your legal options following a car crash in Virginia, reach out to a Fairfax car accident lawyer at Leary Law, P.C. for a free and confidential case evaluation. Our experienced car accident attorney is ready to meet with you virtually or at our offices in Manassas or Fairfax.