PHOENIX PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY

Move to a safe location if you or your car is creating a safety hazard or if you’re concerned with your safety.

Do not leave the scene of the accident.

Obtain a Police Report. Always call the police or 911 after an accident because a police report will serve as a formal record in your favor.

Do not discuss who is at fault with other parties. Showing empathy or concern is expected but DO NOT admit fault or statements such as “I’m sorry I didn’t see you” etc.

Do not disclose your policy details. Share only your license, your insurance name and their phone number.

Collect as much information as you can about the other driver. Such as name, address, phone number, email address, insurance information, and license plate number.

Photographs: Photograph any damage to your vehicle, the vehicle of the other driver, and any personal injuries you may have suffered.

Witnesses: Obtain the names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of any witnesses to the accident. If witness is willing, ask to take a photo of them as well.

Create a diagram: Try to draw out a diagram after your accident, the position of each vehicle, etc. to assist you in recalling the details when you meet with an attorney.

Documentation: Documenting your injuries, the damage to your vehicle, and the entire aftermath of an accident is the single most important thing you can do for your case.  Save all receipts, records, and record and photograph everything.

Seek an Attorney As Soon As Possible: An attorney can guide you through the process so you can focus on healing while we worry about your case.  We don’t get paid, unless you do.

Medical Care and Expenses: Always get medical attention right after a car accident. Keep detailed records of any and all medical expenses. Write down any and all visits to the hospital, clinic, or doctor’s office.

Missed Work: Record every hour you miss work, whether you lose wages or not. If you miss work because of the injuries suffered in the accident or due to medical appointments, do take the time to record each of these instances. Try to obtain a letter from your employer confirming your absences and lost wages.

Students: If you had to miss school due to the injury, this too is something you should record.

Auto Repair & Bills: Obtain at least three estimates for any and all repairs. Do not ever accept a repair estimate offered by an insurance company, always seek a second opinion. RETAIN ALL COPIES OF PAPERWORK PERTAINING TO THE DAMAGE.

Photographs: Do not underestimate the power of your phone to photograph the way injuries progress, the way your vehicle was damaged, and to serve as records of what happened.

Pain, Suffering, and Humiliation: Keep a journal of how the accident has affected you personally, not only physically. You may be entitled to damages for any pain, suffering and humiliation resulting from the accident.

Out of Pocket Expenditures: Again, keep any and all records!  Extra childcare expenses, disruptions to your regular life, private transportation, car rental, etc.

Do not settle: Wait till the extent of your injuries is known before agreeing to settle a case.