If you are involved in an auto accident – even a minor one – you can be shaken up and not be thinking clearly. If you’ve been hurt in an accident, it is important to follow some key guidelines so you protect your rights.

Charles Pitman Injury Attorneys has put together a list of some key things you should do both at the accident scene and afterwards to help protect your rights.

AT THE ACCIDENT SCENE

DO’s:

• Call 9-1-1 to report the accident.
• Check for injuries and provide basic treatment, as required.
• Take pictures of the scene.
• Move vehicles from roadway if safe to do so.
• Set out flares or markers if you have them.
• Get witness names, addresses and all phone numbers.
• Exchange name, address and insurance information with others involved.
• Get a copy of the police report or a case number for later.
• If paramedics recommend transport to the hospital, go with them.

 DON’Ts:

• Move anyone who is seriously injured.
• Leave the scene of the accident.
• Admit you were at fault or discuss the accident with bystanders.
• Sign any release forms (you may sign the police report).
• Forget to take personal items from your car if it’s towed.

AFTER AN ACCIDENT

DO’s:

• Call your insurance company and report the accident.
• File Alabama accident form SR-13 within 30 days.
• Complete follow-up appointments indicated by medical personnel.
• Contact your employer if the doctor takes you off work.
• Verify with your employer how many vacation and sick days you have available and what benefits (short-term disability, etc.) may come into play.
• If this is a work-related accident, report it as such to your employer.
• Write down everything you remember about the accident.

DON’Ts:

• Give a recorded statement to the other party’s insurance company.
• Speak to an insurance adjuster until you are over the shock of the accident and have spoken to an attorney.
• Sign a settlement until you are 100% certain there are no additional damages.
• Throw away any paperwork related to the accident.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident in Alabama, contact the experienced car accident attorneys at Charles Pitman Injury Lawyers today by calling 256-533-5000, e-mailing  info@cpinjurylawyers.com or completing this form.