Call the Police
If you have been hit in an auto-accident, call the police. The responding officer should help gather witness names, compile a report and take pictures. That information will be essential in establishing liability. Failing to contact the local authorities can result in disputed liability. Someone who may want to “take care of an accident” without the police or insurance, may deny liability later.
Obtain Witness Contact Information
If someone else saw the accident, obtain their contact information. Independent witnesses can provide valuable information and help establish liability.
Take Pictures
If you are able to take pictures of the scene of the accident, do so. Many phones are equipped with cameras. Photographic evidence is a useful tool to document damage to your vehicle as well as to your body. If you have lacerations, broken bones or bruises, photograph it. The strength of a personal injury claim is often dependent on the available evidence. Taking photographs of the accident, scene, damage to your vehicle and bodily injuries will provide support and evidence for your damages.
If Injured, Seek Medical Attention Immediately
One of the biggest mistakes that an unrepresented personal injury claimant makes is refusing to seek medical treatment after an accident. Even low speed accidents may cause significant, permanent, or long-term injuries. Failing to seek medical attention can adversely effect your long-term health. In addition, an insurance company may refuse to pay for medical treatment sustained in an auto accident in Montana, if the claimant does not receive treatment until weeks or months after the accident. If you feel you have sustained injuries from an auto accident, seek medical attention immediately.
Contact an Attorney
If you have been injured because of the negligence of another, in an auto accident, seek the legal advice of an attorney. He or she can advise you as to your rights under Montana and Oregonlaw. He or she should also represent your best interests to see that you receive proper medical treatment and care. If you have been seriously injured in an auto accident, you may miss days, weeks or months from your job. An attorney will help you receive funds to cover your medical expenses, lost wages and to obtain sums for future medical expenses and other related damages.
Additional Resources
If you have been injured in an auto accident in Montana, call the law offices of Bliven Law Firm, P.C. at (406) 625-0100 for a FREE CONSULTATION. Our Firm has been helping personal injury and wrongful death victims for 35 years. We care about the community and helping injured victims.