I Was in a Wreck: Now What

If you were in a wreck, there are two important things you should do (and other actions that are helpful). First, let the proper authorities know about the car accident. Second, if you are injured, get the proper medical treatment.

From these two main actions, the remaining actions flow. Here are some things that are important to do and avoid in your case:

Dos and Don'ts

• be specific with doctors about your problems (e.g., instead of "my side hurts," be specific about the area of the pain, the type of pain, the duration of the pain, etc.)

• let your insurance company know about the wreck

• ask your insurance company if they will contact the at-fault driver's company; if not, you need to contact them

• you are not required to tell any insurance company or adjuster about your injuries

• set up your car's property damage claim through a permitted repair company

• if necessary and compensated, set up a rental car

• request the TR-310 accident report

• follow through with all doctor's orders

• determine the reason for the at-fault driver's fault

• demand your PIP or med-pay money (if any exists)

• make sure your medical providers file their bills through your health insurance company

• create a journal of everything that has negatively changed (e.g., "I can no longer pick up my toddler," "I have trouble bathing," "I have pain getting up in the morning," etc.); these are part of your damages

• contact an attorney you trust if you just want to focus on getting better

If you have questions about any of these points, Andrew is available by email or phone. Helping members of Columbia is what we enjoy doing. Please reach out to us when you are able.