What to Do After an Auto Accident

August 5, 2014

It is important to have a basic understanding of how to protect your right to compensation after a car accident. There are several crucial issues to address after an accident, and it is advised that you follow these steps if you have been involved in an auto collision:

  • Call 911 if any person is injured, so that emergency medical assistance arrives on the scene.
  • Contact law enforcement if any person has been injured or killed, if the accident is so severe that the vehicle cannot be moved to the side, or if a hit-and-run driver caused the accident.
  • Move your car to the side if possible so that you and your passengers are not in danger of another collision with passing vehicles, as commonly occurs.
  • Collect information from the other driver, including name, address, phone, license plate number, driver’s license information, and insurance. Provide the other driver with your information.
  • Record the information about the other driver’s insurance exactly as is written on the proof of insurance card. There can be confusion later if you don’t have it right.
  • Don’t sign anything except a ticket, citation or police report that is given to you by law enforcement at the scene.
  • Call your insurance company and notify them that you have been involved in an accident, and provide them with names and addressed of any witnesses or injured victims.
  • Do not sign anything that gives up any legal right you have.
  • Contact Welcenbach Law Offices, S.C. for legal representation.

After a car accident, the actions you take could impact the final settlement you receive. If you admit you are at fault, sign papers, discuss your injuries with an adjuster, or take any other action without legal counsel representing you, it could compromise your claim. We urge you to connect with us, as we are ready to help you to pursue the maximum possible in compensation.

Author Bio

Robert J. Welcenbach Robert Welcenbach is an Owner and Partner at Welcenbach Injury Law, a family-owned personal injury law firm in Milwaukee, WI. With more than 24 years of experience practicing law, he seeks justice for clients in a wide range of legal areas, including car accidents, class actions, dog bites, nursing home abuse, and other personal injury matters.

Robert received his Juris Doctor from the Marquette University Law School and is a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin. He has received numerous accolades for his work, including being nominated and selected as a Milwaukee Personal Injury and Class Action Super Lawyer every year since 2008.

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