Serving Rhode Island & Southern Massachusetts with Offices in: Newport, Providence, North Providence, Pawtucket & Warwick
If you've been in an accident, follow these critical steps and contact Sheeley Law
When an accident occurs, it leaves everyone involved nervous and confused. Below are eight critical steps to take if you’ve been in an accident. We also recommend you click here to print a copy to keep in your glove compartment.
1) Assess Yourself & the Situation
In order to assess the situation, you need to try and remain calm. Take a deep breath and focus on answering these important questions: are you injured? Are your passengers injured?
2) Call 911 & Request Police to the Scene
Always contact police, even if you believe the accident is minor. This ensures all the details are recorded properly and the other party can not change their story.
If there is even the slightest possibility of injury, request an ambulance, as well. You will most likely be in shock after you
have been in an accident and may not realize the extent of your injuries, but it is important to seek medical attention. Often times, injuries do not surface until days after an accident. Even if an ambulance is not required on the scene,
it is recommended you get checked out in the emergency room.
3) Ensure Your Safety
If the accident is minor and no one is injured, you should move your vehicle out of traffic and to a safe location in close proximity to the scene. If there are injuries but the vehicles are not in harm’s way, do not move the vehicles and wait for thepolice. If you or your passenger(s) are injured, stay in your car and wait for the paramedics to arrive.
4) Don't Discuss the Crash with the Other Driver
Do not apologize or admit fault. Importantly, do not provide a formal statement without speaking first to your attorney.
5) Contact a Qualified Personal Injury Attorney
If you believe the other driver is at fault and you have sustained injuries, you need an experienced personal injury attorney. Your lawyer will work with you so that you can receive the settlement you are entitled to, as opposed to what the insurance companies will try to settle for, which will always be less.
6) Obtain Witness Contact Information
If there were witnesses to your accident, we recommend you also have a record of their contact information. Also, take note of where the accident occurred, including nearby landmarks and cross-streets.
7) Take Photos, If You Can
In some cases, photos are the only way to provide the evidence you need to support your claim.
8) Stay Off Social Media!
This can not be overstated. It is critical that you avoid posting, sharing or commenting on even unrelated topics until your Attorney advises you otherwise.
Social Media can destroy even the strongest of cases,
as insurance companies will attempt to use even the most innocent of comments to raise doubt about the
extent of your injuries and the validity of your claim.
