What to Do If You Get Rear-Ended

If you get rear-ended, the first instinct is often to panic. It's easy to become overwhelmed in a situation like this, but it's important to take some deep breaths and think things through. 

There are a few things you need to do to protect yourself and make sure the accident is properly documented. The right car accident lawyer can walk you through everything you need to know about what to do if you get rear-ended.

Check for Injuries

The first thing you need to do after a rear-end accident is check for injuries. Even if you don't think you're hurt, it's important to get checked out by a doctor. 

Many times, people don't realize they're injured until later on, so it's best to be safe than sorry. You may have an internal injury, for example, that may have devastating effects on your future health without treatment. 

Do Not Admit Fault

After a rear-end accident, don’t admit fault, even if you think it was your fault. Many times people will panic and apologize for the accident, but this can be taken out of context by an insurance company or the other driver's lawyer. 

That’s why it’s important to speak to an attorney before you speak with anyone else about the accident. They can help you determine your next steps. 

Document the Accident Scene

Documenting the state of the scene after an accident is also key. You should take pictures of the vehicles involved, any injuries sustained by passengers in either vehicle, skid marks on the road, and anything else that may be relevant to the accident. 

This evidence will be helpful when it comes time to file an insurance claim or lawsuit because physical evidence can degrade over time. If you have photos and other details, you’ll have a better record of the scene. 

File a Report With the Police

You should call 911 immediately and tell them what happened so they can come out as soon as possible. Once the officer arrives on the scene, they will take down your statement and get all of the information needed to fill out an official report. 

The officer will then submit this report to the appropriate agency for further investigation. From there, you and your lawyer can get a copy of this accident report, which can be useful for your claim. 

Hire a Car Accident Attorney

The last key step you need to take after a rear-end accident is to hire an attorney who specializes in car accidents and personal injury law. At Pazner Law, we have a team of experienced attorneys who can help you get the compensation that you deserve. We will work with you every step of the way to make sure that your case is resolved as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Seeking help now? We offer free consultations to car accident victims who need help. Contact us today for a free consultation by calling 313-822-2244 or by visiting our website to learn more. 

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Pazner Law