A motor vehicle accident can be a life-changing event. When a Detroit area resident suffers losses in a violent collision on the road, they may be fearful of what to do and how to protect their rights. One of the first steps they can take toward protecting their legal options is seeking the counsel of a trusted personal injury lawyer that practices in the area of motor vehicle accident law.
However, in the immediate aftermath of a motor vehicle accident, there are a number of things that a victim can do to prepare for future litigation or legal negotiations. This post will discuss some of the steps victims can take, but readers should remember that this post does not provide legal advice on specific personal injury cases. A dedicated personal injury lawyer can help their client craft a litigation strategy to best meet their needs.
At the scene of the accident
Victims should always prioritize their health and safety, so if they are in danger at their motor vehicle accident sites, they should remove themselves to safer locations. If they require medical help, they should seek it as quickly as possible to protect their health and also to preserve a record of their injuries. This information can be important if a victim chooses to go to court over their losses.
If the victim is able, they can seek the contact information from the other parties involved, their insurance information, and identifying information from any witnesses. They may take pictures of their accident scene and make notes about the conditions that were present at the time of the accident, such as if precipitation was present for the time of day.
Timeliness after a crash
Victims may wish to move past their accidents as quickly as possible, but some claims can take time to process. Victims should be aware that statutes of limitation may apply to their personal injury claims, and if they wait too long they may be barred from ever filing them in the courts of Michigan. It is therefore useful to seek counsel with personal injury lawyers so that victims do not undermine their own rights to seek redress and compensation in the civil courts of the state.