What to do after a car accident

The Brown Law Firm understands that car accidents and personal injury cases in Alaska can be stressful and disorienting. The steps that follow a collision are crucial to ensure the safety of all parties, address immediate concerns, and prepare for the insurance and potentially legal processes that follow. The Brown Law Firm has structured this simplified protocol to guide you through the necessary actions post-accident.

Immediate Actions

Ensure Safety

• Following a car accident, check for moving vehicles or a break in traffic before exiting the vehicle.
• Check for injuries among all parties. Call 911 or emergency services if anyone is hurt.
• If there are no serious injuries and the vehicles can be moved, relocate them to a safer spot off the road to avoid disrupting traffic.
• Activate your vehicle’s hazard lights. If available, use cones or flares to warn other drivers.

Exchange Information

• Exchange names, contact information, and insurance details with the other driver(s).
• Refrain from discussing fault; stick to the facts and required information sharing.

Document the Scene

• Take photos of the accident scene, capturing the damage to all vehicles, the layout of the immediate area, traffic signs, and any road conditions (this is important, especially in Alaska) that could have contributed to the accident.
• If witnesses are present, collect their contact information for future reference.

Report the Accident

• Inform your insurance company about the accident right away.
• Call local law enforcement if necessary, and if a report is made, request a copy for your records.

Documentation

Gather Necessary Documentation

• Collect and safely store all available insurance information of the drivers involved.
• Save the contact details of witnesses and any correspondence you might have with them.
• Keep the photos of the accident scene and damages organized and accessible.
• Obtain and make copies of the police report once it’s filed.
• Should you sustain injuries, compile medical records and bills that document your treatment.
• Keep a record of repair estimates and final invoices for vehicle damage.
• Maintain all communication with your insurance company, including claim forms and benefit statements.
• Document a personal account, where you detail the events before, during, and after the accident.

Legal Assistance

Understanding Your Legal Rights with the help of the Brown Law Firm in Alaska

• It’s your right to seek a consultation with a lawyer to understand your legal options and to help protect your rights. The Brown Law Firm in Alaska offers a consultation.
• Legal advice can be invaluable in handling insurance claims and ensuring you receive fair compensation for any injuries or damages.
• Consider legal assistance for more complex cases, such as those involving substantial injuries or when there is a dispute over liability.
• Do not admit fault, and avoid signing any documents regarding the accident without legal counsel from The Brown Law Firm.
• Many Alaska personal injury lawyers offer a free initial consultation, and their fees are generally contingent upon the compensation you receive, meaning no upfront costs for you.

In the chaos that often ensues after an accident, following this structured protocol can help keep you focused and prepared. Remember to prioritize safety, gather necessary documentation, and consider legal advice with The Brown Law Firm. Your well-being and peace of mind are paramount during this process. As a personal injury law firm in Alaska, The Brown Law Firm hopes you don’t need their help, but are here for you if you do. To contact our team, click here or call 907.222.9900.