Navigating a Car Injury Claim: Legal Help and Next Steps After a Crash

When you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, you may be unsure about how to proceed. Many victims begin by searching online for phrases like “car injury attorney near me.” 

In many instances, those who are hurt in car crashes have the legal right to financial compensation. Victims often experience significant medical bills, missed income, and other personal losses.  

A knowledgeable car accident attorney can fight to ensure that you receive the money to which you are entitled. But without premier legal representation, you may miss out on the maximum financial recovery.  

Do not let this happen to you or your loved ones. When you are asking, “Where can I find a car injury attorney near me?” call Morgan & Morgan. 

Morgan and Morgan is America’s largest personal injury law firm. Our team has fought successfully for compensation in over a million cases nationwide. 

When Morgan & Morgan represents you, our team will work tirelessly to secure a positive outcome for you. Complete the user-friendly form on our website to arrange a free case evaluation with one of our representatives today!

What Steps Should I Take After a Car Injury?

Taking the right actions after a motor vehicle collision is vital for any resulting legal claim. Victims who fail to protect their rights at the scene of a crash may be unable to pursue a successful tort claim. 

Being involved in a car accident is a very stressful and devastating experience. It is critical to know what to do to protect yourself.  

Taking proper steps means following any necessary legal and medical procedures. Here are some of the most important steps to take after a car accident.

• Check for Injuries and Call for Medical Assistance

The first thing you should do after a car accident is to check yourself and any passengers in your vehicle for physical harm. If anyone is injured, call for medical help immediately.  

If you're unsure about the severity of the damage, it is always better to err on the side of caution. Call 911 to request medical responders to the scene of the crash. 

• Move to a Safe Location

If you can do so safely, move your vehicle to the side of the road or another safe location. Doing so can help prevent further accidents. This will also allow emergency services personnel to approach the scene of the crash more easily.

• Call Local Law Enforcement

Even if the accident is minor, make sure to call the police. This will allow you to formally report the accident.  

The police will draft an official document recording the circumstances of the accident. A police accident report can be useful for insurance purposes and any legal proceedings that may follow.

• Exchange Relevant Information

After a motor vehicle collision, you should exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the crash. Some of the information you should trade includes: 

• Names and contact information
• Driver's license numbers and license plate numbers
• Insurance policy and coverage information
• Make and model of the vehicles 

Make sure to remain polite and cooperative during the information exchange process. However, you should avoid apologizing or admitting fault.  

Doing so could be used against you in legal proceedings. Let your Morgan & Morgan attorney review the facts of your case to determine who is at fault. 

• Collect Useful Evidence

If possible, take photos of the scene of the accident. Photo and video evidence should include any damage to the vehicles involved and any injuries sustained.  

This evidence can be useful for insurance purposes. Your attorney will use this documentation during the legal proceedings that may follow to support your case.

• Notify Your Insurance Provider 

You should notify your insurance company as soon as possible after a motor vehicle accident. The company representative will guide you through the claims process.  

They should also provide any necessary information about coverage and deductibles. However, do not attempt to negotiate with an adjuster without the guidance of an attorney.

• Seek Medical Attention

Even if you do not believe you are injured, you should still seek medical attention after an accident. Some injuries do not become apparent until hours or days after the collision.  

Seeking medical treatment can also create a record of any injuries sustained. Medical records can be useful for any legal proceedings that may follow.

• Keep Track of Expenses

Keep a record of any expenses related to your traffic collision. Common examples of related expenses include medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and any other losses you incur.  

This can be useful for determining the appropriate amount of financial damages in your case. The team at Morgan & Morgan will fight for maximum compensation in your car injury claim.

• Consider Legal Representation

If the accident was serious or resulted in significant injuries or damage, it may be a good idea to consult with a lawyer. A lawyer can advise you on your legal rights and help you navigate any legal requirements that may follow.

• Be Cautious on Social Media 

Avoid posting anything about your injuries on social media. These posts could be used against you in your legal claim. You should also avoid discussing the accident with anyone other than your lawyer or medical providers. 

Motor vehicle collisions can be nerve-racking. Remember to stay calm, exchange information, gather evidence, and seek medical attention. 

Make sure to consult with a skilled tort attorney by contacting the team at Morgan & Morgan. We will leverage our skills and experience to recover every dime you are owed.

Common Injuries From Car Crashes

Motor vehicle crashes can result in a wide range of injuries. Physical damage can vary from minor cuts and bruises to life-threatening trauma.  

The severity and nature of injuries will depend on the specific circumstances of the crash. Relevant factors include: 

• The speed of the vehicles involved
• The angle of the impact
• The use of seat belts or airbags
• The health and age of those involved
• The size, make, and model of the vehicles 

Each car accident injury uniquely affects the victim. However, some injury types are more typical than others. Here are some common injuries from car accidents.

• Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries to occur from a vehicular crash. Whiplash happens when the head and neck are whipped back and forth forcefully.  

These injuries often occur as the result of rear-end collisions. Typical symptoms of whiplash can include: 

• Severe neck pain and stiffness
• Long-lasting headaches
• Dizziness 

In extreme cases, whiplash can cause chronic pain or other long-term medical complications.

• Head and Brain Injuries

Head injuries range from minor concussions to extreme traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Symptoms of car accident head injuries can include: 

• Headaches
• Dizziness confusion
• Temporary loss of consciousness 
• Nausea and vomiting 

In severe cases, these injuries can result in permanent brain damage, coma, or death.

• Fractures and Broken Bones

Car accidents can result in broken bones. This is particularly likely in the victims’ arms, legs, or ribs.  

Signs of fractures include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area. If you or someone in the crash experiences these symptoms, seek medical care immediately.

• Internal Damage

Traffic collisions can also result in internal injuries for drivers and passengers. Examples of internal injuries include damage to organs and internal bleeding.  

Signs of these injuries may not be immediately apparent. The symptoms of internal damage can include pain, dizziness, and fatigue. If internal injuries are severe, they can be life-threatening. Victims should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

• Cuts and Bruises

Cuts and bruises are common in traffic accidents. This is particularly true in areas of the body that impact the interior of the vehicle during the collision. Although cuts and bruises are sometimes minor, they can cause significant pain and take time to heal.

• Back and Spinal Injuries

Vehicular collisions can cause victims to experience back or spinal injuries. Examples include herniated discs or fractures to vertebrae.  

Significant back injuries can cause pain, numbness, and decreased range of motion. In extreme cases, spinal injuries may result in partial or total paralysis.

• Soft Tissue Damage

Soft tissue injuries can include damage to the ligaments, tendons, and muscles. This type of injury often causes pain, swelling, and an inability to move the affected area. Soft tissue injuries to the back, neck, and shoulders are very likely in the aftermath of a car crash. 

It is vital to seek medical attention after a motor vehicle accident. This is true even if you believe you are not injured.  

Some injuries are not always obvious, and symptoms may not develop immediately.  

Seeking a medical assessment will also create a record of any damage resulting from the crash. Beyond seeking medical attention, you should follow any treatment plans recommended by your healthcare provider. Examples may include physical therapy, prescription medications, or surgeries.

Can Car Crashes Cause Psychological Harm?

Yes. Traffic accidents can have significant psychological effects. Some victims may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following the incident.  

Symptoms of PTSD include anxiety, depression, and accident-related flashbacks. Although this disorder is not a physical injury, it can have long-lasting effects on the victim’s quality of life. 

Fortunately, victims have the right to pursue non-economic damages to compensate for their psychological injuries. When a Morgan & Morgan attorney fights for you, they will pursue every cent you are owed.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Injury Claim?

The time limit for pursuing a legal claim for a car injury will vary depending on the jurisdiction of the crash. Generally, you should act promptly to protect your legal rights and ensure that you can receive damages. 

The legal statute of limitations for car injury claims typically ranges from one to six years. This time limit is determined at the state level. Some states have a shorter time limit for filing claims. It is crucial to check the specific statutes in your state to understand the applicable time limit. 

The statute of limitations may also differ depending on the type of claim being pursued. For instance, the time limit for filing a personal injury claim may be different from the time limit for filing a property damage claim. 

Let Morgan and Morgan Fight for You

If you have been injured in an accident, make sure to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney at Morgan & Morgan. One of our lawyers can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.  

Fill out the online contact form today to speak with us about a free case evaluation.