What You Should Do (And Not Do) After a Car Accident

Here is a list of things you should do (or should not do) after a automobile or truck accident:

1)  You should call the police.  Ignore any request by the other driver to "let the insurance companies handle it" or "keep the police out of it – I can’t afford a ticket."

2)  Tell the police officer(s) the truth about what occurred.  Do not guess or try to fill in facts.

3)  Be careful what you say to the other driver.  Be polite, but not chatty.

4)  If you have a camera in your car, photograph the accident scene and damage to both vehicles (or as soon as practically possible).  Include photos of any skidmarks, yaw marks, gouge marks, etc.  

5)  If you believe your are injured, obtain medical treatment as soon as possible.

6)  Contact your insurance company immediately to report the accident.

7)  DO NOT talk with anyone who calls you from the other driver’s insurance company.

8)  Do not panic if the police report is inaccurate as to how the accident occurred.  The police report is not admissible in evidence in Tennessee.  However, if the police report is inaccurate, it is important that you talk with a lawyer quickly. 

9)  Employ an attorney promptly if you received any injuries in the accident.

10) Keep a list of the doctors and other health care providers you have seen.

11)  Do not write about your accident or medical treatment on Facebook, Twitter, or any other social media.

 

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John Day represents personal injury victims and families of wrongful death victims.  He is board-certified as a civil trial specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and, in fact, served as President of the organization. He is an elected member of the prestigious American College of Trial Lawyers.  His book, "Day on Torts:   Leading Cases in Tennessee Tort Law," is used by judges and lawyers across Tennessee to further their understanding of personal injury and wrongful death law in Tennessee.  In 2009, Best Lawyers named John "Best Personal Injury Lawyer" for Nashville; he was the first recipient of that award. Best Lawyers also  named John as "Best Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Nashville" for 2010.   John does not charge for an initial consultation and accepts personal injury and wrongful death cases on a contingent  fee basis.  You can reach him by telephone at 615.742.4880 or by email by clicking here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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