When you have a full schedule, the last thing you want to deal with is a car accident, especially if your injuries left you feeling less than your best.
While finding a lawyer might feel like another item on your post-accident to do list, getting legal representation can actually make all of your other tasks easier.
Most importantly, a lawyer specializing in car accident injuries can help maximize the compensation you receive from the other driver.
How Soon After the Crash Do You Need to Get a Car Accident Injury Lawyer in San Antonio?
Many people make the mistake of putting off their search for a personal injury attorney.
It is understandable that between visiting the ER, exchanging information with the other driver, and notifying your insurance company, contacting a lawyer might feel like something that can wait.
In reality, the sooner you speak with a lawyer, the stronger your chances of winning a settlement will be.
A good rule of thumb is to contact an attorney within the first 24 hours.
Why Are the First 24 Hours After an Accident So Important?
As soon as a car accident occurs, the clock starts ticking on a number of deadlines that you must meet in order to submit an insurance claim or exercise your right to file a lawsuit.
Furthermore, the actions you take before your claim is resolved can have a profound effect on the amount of money you are able to recover, starting at the scene of the crash.
Qualified personal injury attorneys have experience jumping into their clients’ cases at various stages, so you don’t need to be too concerned if you did not reach out within the first 24 hours.
However, the sooner your attorney can start working with you, the more helpful he or she can be. Here is an overview of what to expect in the immediate aftermath of a car crash:
You Will Have the Opportunity to Start Collecting Evidence
Your smartphone can generate a wealth of evidence in support of your case. As long as you are physically able, you should thoroughly document the crash by taking pictures and videos from multiple angles.
If there were any witnesses, you should ask them for their contact information. You can even use your phone to record their statements if they agree to be interviewed.
It is also important to obtain information from the other driver. Be sure to note his or her:
- Name
- Driver’s license number
- Auto insurance provider
- Plate number
Your Statements Take on Legal Importance
Any statements that you make about the crash within the first 24 hours and up until the case is resolved could be used against you by the other side.
For that reason, it is important to have a lawyer coach you on how to handle any questions you receive.
When speaking with the responding officers, keep your answers factual and do not apologize out of politeness. Your statements will be noted in the police report.
Additionally, you should not submit to an interview with the insurance claims adjuster or any representatives of the insurance company before you have spoken with a lawyer.
In all likelihood, your lawyer will be able to handle these communications for you.
Using equal discretion on social media by refraining from posting anything about the accident can help protect your claim, as well.
A Visit to the ER Will Benefit Your Health and Your Case
In addition to contacting a lawyer, it is vitally important that you visit the ER in the first 24 hours after an accident, regardless of how your body feels.
Many accident-related conditions, including whiplash, internal bleeding, spinal injuries, and brain damage, can remain masked until your adrenaline wears off. When you visit the ER, the doctors will check for any hidden injuries and administer treatments if necessary.
The second reason why you should always go to the ER is to make sure your post-accident condition is noted in your medical history.
As any personal injury lawyer will tell you, your medical history is one of the most important pieces of evidence you can bring to your case.
Why It Is Always Best to Contact An Attorney Sooner Rather Than Later
The sooner you contact an attorney, the more advice you can receive throughout the claim submission process.
Without contacting an attorney, you risk making mistakes simply because you don’t know what impact they will have.
For example, your lawyer will likely inform you that if you choose not to follow the doctors’ instructions, the defense will have an opportunity to argue that you neglected your injuries. For more information on getting legal support, you can visit this page.
You can benefit from contacting a car accident attorney at any point before the moment you sign a settlement offer.
However, the sooner you reach out, the smoother your case will go. Given the number of significant events that happen immediately after a car crash, it is best to speak with an attorney within the first 24 hours.