The First 72 Hours
Experiencing an accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming event, leaving you with many questions about what to do next. The first 72 hours following an accident are critical for your health, safety, and potential legal claims.
At our office in Amarillo, Texas, we understand the urgency and importance of taking the right steps after an accident. With over seven decades of combined experience, our Texas personal injury lawyers are ready to guide you toward a better future. Here’s an overview of what you need to know.
Immediate Response: Safety First
As you likely know, the moments immediately following an accident can be chaotic. In all cases, your first priority should be securing your safety and the safety of others involved. If you're in a vehicle accident, check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. It’s essential to document the scene as much as possible, so take photos of the accident site, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. That said, always be sure to prioritize seeking or providing aid as necessary. Keep in mind that neglecting your safety is never helpful in personal injury cases.
Seeking Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after an accident, it's crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, such as concussions or internal injuries. Getting checked by a healthcare professional can not only protect your health but also create an official record of your injuries. This documentation can be vital later if you decide to pursue legal action.
Documenting the Accident
Documentation is key in the days following an accident. Gather as much information as possible about the incident, including:
Witness statements: If there were witnesses to the accident, obtain their contact information and ask for their accounts of what happened.
Police report: When authorities arrive, make sure to file a police report. This report will serve as an official account of the incident and can be crucial for your case.
Photos and videos: Capture any relevant visual evidence that can help support your claim in the eyes of the law.
All this information can bolster your case when working with accident attorneys.
Reaching Out to Accident Attorneys
One of the most important steps you can take within the first 72 hours is to reach out to accident attorneys. Getting through the aftermath of an accident can be complicated, and having an experienced legal professional by your side can make all the difference. At Tormey & McConnell, when you make an appointment with us, you’ll meet directly with an attorney—not a secretary—meaning that your concerns are addressed promptly and thoroughly.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
You may feel uncertain about your legal rights and the next steps you should take. Accident attorneys can provide clarity on the potential avenues available to you. In many cases, you might be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. However, acting quickly is crucial, as there are statutes of limitations that apply to personal injury claims.
Initial Consultation
When you come in for your initial consultation, we’ll listen to your story, evaluate the details of your case, and help you understand the potential outcomes. Our attorneys have over seven decades of combined experience, which allows us to provide insight into the strengths and weaknesses of your claim. We’ll help you build a strong case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
During the first 72 hours after an accident, it’s easy to make mistakes that can jeopardize your case. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Admitting fault: Even if you believe you may be at fault, it’s best not to admit liability at the scene of the accident. Leave it to the insurance companies and your attorney to sort out the details.
Not documenting evidence: Failing to collect evidence can weaken your case and legal position. Make sure to gather as much information as possible so the court has a clear picture of the events.
Delaying medical treatment: If you wait too long to seek medical attention, insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t a result of the accident. This could lead to either a reduced payout or even a total lack of one.
Speaking to insurance adjusters: Be cautious when speaking to insurance adjusters. They may attempt to minimize your claim or pressure you into accepting a low settlement. Consulting with your accident attorneys before communicating with them can protect your interests.
Building Your Case
In the days following the accident, your attorney will work diligently to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and prepare your case. This includes:
Collecting medical records: Your medical documentation will be crucial in proving your injuries. It’ll provide an accurate account of how the injury has affected your day-to-day life.
Estimating damages: Experienced accident attorneys can help quantify your damages, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Negotiating with insurance companies: Your attorney will handle all communication with insurance companies on your behalf, confirming that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair settlement.
Preparing for Legal Action
If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your attorney may recommend pursuing legal action. This could involve filing a lawsuit to hold the at-fault party accountable. During this time, having experienced accident attorneys by your side is invaluable, as they’ll handle the challenges of the legal process, advocate for your rights, and work toward achieving the best possible outcome. That said, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, only about 3% of tort cases, or civil lawsuits claiming injury by another person's intentional or negligent actions, are decided by a trial verdict. Fortunately, most are settled without going to trial.
Moving Forward
The first 72 hours after an accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through this difficult time alone. At Tormey & McConnell, we’re committed to helping you every step of the way. With over seven decades of combined experience, our team is prepared to guide you toward a better future.
If you’ve been involved in an accident, don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation. When you make an appointment, you’ll meet directly with one of our skilled attorneys, seeing that your case receives the personal attention it deserves. We understand the emotional and financial toll an accident can take on your life. That’s why we’re here to not only provide legal support but also to offer compassionate guidance through this challenging time.
The Importance of Timeliness
Time is of the essence after an accident. In addition to the physical and emotional recovery, acting quickly can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Evidence can disappear, witnesses may forget crucial details and legal deadlines can pass quickly. By consulting with accident attorneys soon after the incident, you can be sure that you’re taking all necessary steps to protect your rights.
If You’ve Been Hurt, Let Us Go to Bat for You
At Tormey & McConnell, we’re dedicated to fighting for your rights and helping you recover from the aftermath of an accident. From gathering evidence to negotiating settlements, we stand by your side throughout the entire process.
Contact us today to get started on your path to recovery, and let us help you reclaim your life after an accident. If you’re located in the Canyon, Dumas, Pampa, Hereford, Childress, or Borger areas, give us a call.