What to Do and Not Do Following an Accident

If you have been injured in an accident you believe was caused by the negligence of another, here are some things you SHOULD do, beginning immediately:

1. Contact a Lawyer: By phone or online, contact Wagner, McLaughlin & Whittemore or another law firm you trust to discuss your situation and the possibility of bringing legal action against those who are responsible for your injuries.

2. Keep Everything: Get a large envelope or file folder and begin keeping, in one place, everything that is potentially related to your accident or case. Save photographs of the accident or scene, photographs of the injured party before and after the accident, letters, bills, receipts, cancelled checks, insurance policies, police reports, notes, and other documents that might be helpful in proving how the accident happened and, just as importantly, the nature and extent of your injuries.

3. Record Questions: Get a large notebook pad and begin writing down the questions you want to ask your lawyer the next time you meet with him or her. Also write down any additional facts you have forgotten to include in previous interviews.

4. Begin your Diary: You may think that you will never forget the circumstances surrounding your accident, but as time passes memories become blurred. Sit down now and write a brief summary of the circumstances surrounding the accident. Add a brief summary of the important events that have occurred since the accident.

5. List Witnesses: Every time an important event occurs that is witnessed by someone else, make a note of that person’s name, address, and phone number. Also, keep a list of the employees or supervisors at work who can testify as to the amount of your earning loss. If you learn of the existence of any witness to the accident, advise your attorney immediately.

The documents, notes, and lists that you collect above will be exceedingly helpful to your attorney as he or she begins to represent you and advocate on your behalf. As your case progresses toward settlement, mediation, or trial, your attorney will work with you on additional tasks and preparation.

What should you NOT do if you are injured in an accident?

DO NOT give a written or oral statement to any person who contacts you about the accident or your case. Instead, refer them to your attorney (or advise them that you are currently obtaining one), then let your attorney know the name, address, and phone number of the person who contacted you.

DO NOT throw anything away.

DO NOT get discouraged. We are here to help. Contact us today for a free evaluation of your case.