The decisions made following a car accident can determine the success of a future liability claim. It is important to gather as much information as possible and to ensure the safety of yourself and others at the scene. Following a few suggestions may help.
First and foremost, it is important to ensure everyone’s safety. Call 911 if someone is injured. It is recommended to keep your car packed with blankets and a medical kit, as doing so will allow you to assist the injured person. If someone is bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth. Because of spinal injury risks, you should make every effort to keep injured people still. If possible, all vehicles should be moved to the side of the road.
If there are no injuries, the law in Michigan requires that all parties involved exchange necessary information. Names, addresses, make, model and license plate numbers and insurance information should be exchanged. In the meantime, it is important to call the police to obtain a police report. Once all information is obtained, call your insurance company. It is recommended that you keep a disposable camera in your car at all times. If you have access to a disposable camera, take pictures of the accident scene and of any damage done to the vehicles. Additionally, document all specifics about the accident including: time of day, road conditions, weather conditions, the speeds of all cars involved, and the names, phone numbers and addresses of any witnesses.
As long as your No-Fault insurance policy is in effect all of your medical expenses will be covered. Additionally, work loss will be compensated for up to 3 years and replacement household services will be covered up to $20.00 per day.
Following a car accident do not discuss the details of the accident with anyone at the scene, other than police officer or medical personnel providing care. Statements that you make following a collision may be used against you later. Following these suggestions can help make your claim with your insurance carrier. Remember insurance people are professionals. You should have a professional advocate on your side. We would be honored to advise you if you need help.
recently named in the 2009 edition of Best Lawyer's In America, David Mittleman has been representing seriously injured people since 1985. A partner with Church Wyble PC—a division of Grewal Law PLLC—Mr. Mittleman and his partners focus on medical malpractice, wrongful death, car accidents, slip and falls, nursing home injury, pharmacy/pharmacist negligence and disability claims.
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