Getting injured in an on-road mishap in Montrose could be one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. Unfortunately, such accidents happen quite often in Colorado. This is a tort state. If you believe that the other driver was negligent, drunk, or irresponsible, you could ask for compensation. Since you are the claimant, the burden of proof is on you. It is best to consult a Montrose auto accident lawyer to know the worth of your case. Here are the steps to take right after.
- Stop and call the police. Even if the accident seems like a minor fender bender, don’t leave the scene and inform the local law enforcement. The other driver may tell you to settle the matter, but don’t fall for such words.
- Call 911 for emergency medical care. If you have suffered serious injuries, or when someone is in need of urgent medical attention, call 911 without any delay. Unless it’s safe and you are trained, don’t try to move the injured.
- Swap details. Talk to drivers involved in the crash and get the info you need – insurance details, license number, and contact info. Don’t engage in a fight, and even if you were partly at fault, don’t admit anything to anyone.
- Take a few pictures. Use your phone to get pictures and videos of your injuries and the accident in general. Make sure that you keep the information safe to share with your attorney later.
- Talk to witnesses. If there were witnesses to the accident, get their contact details so that your lawyer can later talk to them for statements. Witnesses can be truly important for auto accident cases.
- Inform the insurance company. You are obligated to inform your insurance company that you were injured/involved in an accident. However, refrain from giving a statement if you don’t have an attorney on your side.
- Call a lawyer. Talk to an attorney about the accident at the earliest. Don’t hire any random lawyer, but someone who specializes in personal injury law in Colorado. Ask the attorney if they frequently work on accident lawsuits and whether they have been to court.
Hiring an attorney for your accident doesn’t have to cost you an upfront fee. These lawyers usually take a contingency fee, which is a share or percentage of the settlement. If you eventually don’t win a settlement, the lawyer doesn’t get a fee – it’s that simple.
