What to Expect After a Car Accident

Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming and confusing. It’s important to know what happens after a car accident so you can determine your best course of action from seeking compensation from those responsible.

For specific advice regarding your situation, contact an experienced car accident attorney near you for a free consultation. A lawyer can review your claim and inform you of your rights and options to seek compensation. They can also advocate strongly for you throughout the process to help you get the full and fair compensation you deserve.

What Should I Do Following a Car Crash?

Following a car crash, the first thing you should do is ensure your safety and the safety of others. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location, such as the shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the situation.

Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately. Even if there are no apparent injuries, it’s still a good idea to seek medical attention, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

Once you ensure everyone’s safety, exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. This should include names, contact information, insurance details, and license plate numbers. If there are any witnesses to the accident, collect their contact information as well.

Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to the vehicles, any injuries, and the surrounding area. These photos can be valuable evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.

Notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and provide you with the necessary steps to take.

Contact a personal injury lawyer in your area to discuss your case. An attorney can help you deal with the insurance companies and walk you through the appropriate steps to take for filing an injury claim if you qualify.

What Happens to Vehicles After an Accident?

The fate of the vehicles involved in an accident depends on the severity of the damage. If the damage is minor, such as a small dent or scratch, the vehicle may be able to be driven away from the scene. However, if the damage is more severe, the vehicle may need to be towed to a repair shop or a storage facility.

If the vehicle is deemed a total loss, meaning the cost of repairs exceeds the value of the vehicle, the insurance company will typically pay out the fair market value of the vehicle to the owner. The vehicle will then be sold to a salvage yard or auction house.

In some cases, the vehicle may be repaired and put back on the road. The insurance company will cover the cost of repairs up to the policy limit, and the owner will be responsible for any additional costs.

What Factors Determine Fault in an Accident?

Determining fault in a car accident can be a complex process.

Courts, insurance companies, and lawyers take several factors into consideration, including:

• Police reports: If the police were called to the scene of the accident, they will create a report that includes their assessment of what happened and who was at fault.
• Witness statements: If there were any witnesses to the accident, their statements can be used to help determine fault.
• Physical evidence: The location of the damage on the vehicles, skid marks on the road, and other physical evidence can provide clues as to how the accident occurred and who was at fault.
• Traffic laws: Lawyers can determine fault by looking at which driver violated traffic laws, such as running a red light or failing to yield the right of way.

In some cases, two or more drivers may share fault for the accident. For example, if one driver broke the speed limit and the other driver made an illegal turn, both drivers may share fault.

How an Attorney Can Help You Get Compensation

If another driver’s negligence caused a car accident that hurt you or a loved one, you may receive compensation for your injuries and damages.

An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and fight for compensation by:

• Thoroughly investigating the accident and gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records to support your claim.
• Negotiating with insurance companies to ensure that you receive the fair compensation you need.
• Representing you in court if the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement
• Providing support and guidance throughout the process, helping you focus on your recovery while they handle the legal aspects of your case.

Contact the Brown Law Firm for Help

If you or a close family member suffered injuries in a car accident in Steamboat Springs or anywhere in Colorado, the Brown Law Firm can help. Our experienced personal injury attorneys have a proven track record of success in helping accident victims recover maximum compensation for their injuries and losses.

We offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency basis. This means you won’t pay anything upfront and no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you through an insurance settlement or court award.

Contact us today for your free case evaluation from one of our experienced and dedicated Colorado car accident attorneys.