A car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but taking the right steps immediately afterward can make a big difference in protecting your well-being and legal rights. If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash, knowing what to do next is crucial.

At Brown & Laing, we help accident victims navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation they deserve. Here are the four key steps to take after a car accident to protect yourself and your claim.

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Your health should be your top priority after an accident. Even if you feel fine, seek medical care as soon as possible. Many serious injuries, including whiplash, concussions, and internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away.

Delaying treatment not only puts your health at risk but may also hurt your ability to recover compensation. Insurance companies often argue that injuries were not serious if there was no immediate medical attention. Seeing a doctor creates a medical record that connects your injuries to the accident, strengthening your claim.

2. Document the Scene

Gathering clear evidence at the accident scene can be critical to your case. If it is safe to do so, take the following steps:

• Photograph the scene – Capture images of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs.
• Exchange information – Get the other driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and license plate number.
• Speak with witnesses – If anyone saw the accident, ask for their contact information. Their statements may be helpful later.
• Write down details – Take notes on what happened, including the time, location, weather conditions, and any relevant road hazards.

The more information you collect, the stronger your case will be when dealing with insurance companies or filing a claim.

3. Reach Out to Brown & Laing for Legal Guidance

Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or pressure you into accepting a low settlement. Before speaking with adjusters or signing any documents, it’s important to understand your rights.

At Brown & Laing, we help accident victims by:

• Handling negotiations with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation.
• Gathering and preserving evidence to support your claim.
• Filing legal action if necessary to seek maximum recovery for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t go through this alone. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.