SUV accidents, including those that result in significant injuries to both drivers and passengers, occur more frequently than many people realize. According to the National Highway Traffic Administration, over three million individuals sustain injuries in vehicle accidents annually in the United States. This alarming statistic underscores the importance of being prepared and informed about what to do in the aftermath of an SUV accident.
Experiencing an SUV accident can be a daunting event, but knowing the steps to take immediately afterward is crucial for your safety and well-being. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do if you find yourself in such a situation:
Ensure Your Safety and Move Out of Traffic First and foremost, prioritize your safety by moving out of the way of oncoming traffic if possible. This helps prevent further collisions and ensures that you are in a secure location.
Call 911 and Seek Immediate Medical Attention Contact emergency services right away by dialing 911. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s important to have medical professionals assess your condition. Trust the paramedics’ judgment if they recommend emergency medical care, as you may not be in the right frame of mind to accurately evaluate your health following the accident. Even if immediate medical care is not urged, seek a thorough medical examination as some injuries might not show symptoms right away. Early medical intervention can help diagnose any issues and document injuries or conditions resulting from the accident.
Provide Detailed Medical Information When receiving medical attention, clearly communicate all your symptoms, feelings, and any pain you are experiencing to the healthcare provider. Be comprehensive in describing even mild symptoms, as some injuries can develop over time and lead to more severe pain. Follow up with medical care as necessary to ensure proper recovery.
Document the Accident Scene If you are able, take numerous photos and videos of the accident scene, capturing the position of the vehicles, any visible damages, and the surrounding area. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver Obtain and exchange the following information with the other driver involved in the accident:
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
Seek Professional Help Our team can assist you by gathering police reports, medical reports, interviewing witnesses, and communicating with insurance companies on your behalf. Since Louisiana is a comparative fault state, you might have to deal with multiple insurance companies. We are here to help navigate this complex process and ensure your interests are protected.
By following these steps, you can handle the aftermath of an SUV accident more effectively, ensuring your safety and safeguarding your rights.
Common Injuries from SUV Accidents
- Soft tissue injuries. Whiplash affects muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck and head due to the forces of a collision.
- Scrapes and cuts. Flying objects inside the vehicle, such as phones and glass, can cause injuries.
- Head/brain injuries. Impacts can lead to concussions or more severe brain injuries.
- Back/spinal column injuries. Collisions can result in sprains, strains, herniated discs, and spinal cord damage.
- Chest injuries. These can range from bruises to broken ribs and internal organ damage.
- Arm and leg injuries. Side impacts can cause bruises, cuts, sprains, broken bones, and even amputations.
- Facial injuries. Impacts and flying debris can lead to severe facial injuries, including broken bones and teeth.
- Emotional distress. Post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression can follow a serious accident.
How Can We Help After Your Accident?
When you hire a personal injury firm like The Law Offices of Chip Forstall, it gives you the time you need to focus on healing from your accident and injuries. We can represent you and handle settlement negotiations with one or more insurance companies. We’ll make sure that you are adequately represented, have your medical bills taken care of, get the best financial settlement that you can, and ensure you aren’t taken advantage of.