Jump To Navigation

What To Do After an Accident

We know that when you are injured you immediately have many important things to think about.  We hope the following information may help you as you recuperate from your injuries and plan your future.

  • Do not talk to an insurance adjuster, a lawyer for the liable party, or to anyone else who is not absolutely on your side. The sooner you talk to a personal injury attorney, the sooner we can begin to handle those conversations for you.
  • Document as much as you can about the accident or ask a friend to help. Note any defects in the equipment or work area. Photograph the accident site if possible, whether it is a work site, a home accident, or a traffic accident.
  • Fill out required accident reports for a workplace accident. Be careful about describing an injury. An injury may not be apparent for a day or two.
  • Do not give written or recorded statements. When you are still suffering from the pain or shock of an accident, you may leave out important information. Later, the insurance company can use misstatements or missing information to downplay the seriousness of your injuries.
  • Give your doctor a complete history of how the accident happened. The more the doctor knows, the better that doctor will be able to document your injuries and look for unobvious injuries.
  • Notify local law enforcement if this is a traffic accident.  Do not leave the scene until an officer arrives unless an ambulance attendant determines you must leave.
  • If this is on the property of a business you should notify someone in authority that you have been injured and note their name and position.
  • Take photographs of the place where you were injured, showing what caused the accident i.e., spilled water, cracked sidewalk, etc.  If you are unable to take the pictures have a family member do it as soon as possible.
  • If you need medical attention tell the physician exactly how the accident happened and what defect, condition or person's negligence caused it.

Make sure you have the legal representation you need. The personal injury attorneys at the SLChapman LLC are experienced in protecting our clients' rights and obtaining the settlements clients need and deserve.

With offices in Wood River and Chicago, Illinois, we can meet with you within hours, throughout the Midwest, and nationwide. Contact us at any time for a free consultation with an attorney experienced in the area in which you require assistance.

For free consultation rapid response call or e-mail today.