What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Colorado Springs?

If you’ve been in a car crash, it’s a natural reaction to feel confused about what to do next. However, taking the right steps early on can make a big difference for your safety and your ability to recover. After a car accident in Colorado Springs, you should start by making sure everyone is safe and calling 911 to report the accident. 

Always seek medical attention, even if you seem to be ok. Adrenaline can mask pain, and you may have injuries you’re not yet aware of.

Exchange information with the other driver, but avoid discussing fault. Document everything—take photos, gather witness information, and keep track of any medical visits or expenses.

Finally, consider reaching out to a Colorado Springs car accident lawyer. Attorneys can help you make sense of a difficult situation.  Let’s take a closer look at what you can do to protect your rights and help ensure the best outcome after a car accident.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Colorado Springs

Car accidents are always shocking and can add big interruptions to your daily life. What you do next can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Here are some practical steps to take after a car crash to best protect your health, your rights, and your interests in the near future: 

Prioritize Safety

The first thing to do after an accident is to ensure everyone is safe. Move your vehicle to the side of the road if it’s drivable and safe to do so. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers and prevent further accidents.

If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and get help right away.

Report the Accident

Colorado law requires you to report accidents that involve any fatalities, injuries, or significant property damage. You can call 911 to ensure law enforcement comes to the scene. They’ll create an official accident report, which can be an important piece of evidence for insurance claims or legal proceedings.

Seek Medical Attention

Seek a medical evaluation, as some types of injuries might not show symptoms right away. Seeing a doctor promptly not only protects your health but also creates a medical record of your injuries, which can be crucial if you decide to pursue compensation later.

Exchange Information

Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Avoid discussing fault or apologizing, as these statements could be used against you in insurance claims or legal disputes. Ask witnesses for their contact information so their testimony can be used later to clarify any conflicts.

Document the Scene

If you are physically able, gather as much evidence as possible at the scene of the accident. Use your phone to take photos or videos of vehicle damage, the location surrounding the crash, any visible injuries, and any type of debris or skid marks that may help tell the story of the accident.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Most insurance policies require you to report an accident as soon as possible. Remember to stick to the basic facts when you call, and avoid making detailed statements or accepting blame. If the insurance company offers a quick settlement, consult an experienced Colorado Springs personal injury lawyer before agreeing to anything.

What to Do in the Days and Weeks Following the Accident to Protect Your Rights

There are a number of things you can do to be proactive as your personal injury claim progresses. Here are some ways you can protect your health and your claim: 

Take Care of Yourself and Document Everything

As you recover in the days following the accident, follow your doctor’s advice and attend all medical appointments. Consistent care documents your recovery and validates the severity of your injuries. 

Make sure to keep records of medical bills, repair estimates, and missed work. A recovery journal describing how the accident impacts your daily life can also strengthen your case.

Stay Off Social Media

While it might be convenient to share details about the accident with your friends and family online, it’s best to avoid posting anything on social media until your case is resolved. Insurance companies or opposing parties might use your posts against you. Protect yourself by staying quiet on social platforms.

Consult with a Colorado Springs Car Accident Attorney

Car accidents can have complex issues, like questions about fault and disputes with insurance companies. A skilled attorney can ensure your rights are protected.

Your lawyer can deal with the insurance company on your behalf and 

• Help you understand your legal rights.
• Gather and preserve evidence to strengthen your case.
• Negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your compensation.
• Represent you in court if necessary.

What if I Am Offered a Settlement by the Insurance Company?

If the insurance company offers you a settlement, proceed carefully. Initial settlement offers are often much lower than what you’re entitled to. Insurance adjusters are specifically trained to minimize payouts to protect their company’s bottom line.

This means their offer might not fully cover your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, or pain and suffering. Before accepting any settlement, take the time to understand the full extent of your injuries and damages.

An experienced car accident attorney can evaluate whether the offer is fair and negotiate on your behalf to maximize your compensation and help ensure no losses remain unaddressed.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Recovering from a car crash takes time, and the steps you take after the crash can make a big difference in your physical recovery and financial outcome. When you take steps to protect yourself, you can help ensure you won’t have financial losses unaddressed.

At Matlin Injury Law, we remain committed to your recovery. We’re here to help every step of the way. Still wondering what to do after a car accident? Contact us today for a free consultation and find out what our firm can do to help you and your family move forward.