Automobile accidents are always challenging experiences. Even if you do not sustain life-threatening injuries, getting into a serious collision can cause a spike in adrenaline, which might prompt you to do something at the scene that jeopardizes your personal injury claim down the road. If you know what to do in such a scenario, you can avoid making critical mistakes along the way. Below, Stephen B. Kaufman, P.C., of the Bronx, NY, explains what he wants clients to do immediately following automobile accidents.

3 Steps to Take Following Automobile Accidents

1. Call the Police

If possible, pull over to a safe place that is away from traffic, and call the police. Do not flee the scene, and do not let the other motorist convince you that you do not need police involvement.

Law enforcement personnel can help in a variety of ways, even after minor collisions. Not only will they direct traffic and prevent any conversations regarding fault from turning into physical altercations, but they will also draft an official report, which you can later use to build your case.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Assess everyone in your vehicle for signs of life-threatening injuries. If anyone appears to be seriously hurt, provide the level of care that you are comfortable with—use the medical kit in your trunk if you have one—and make sure responders attend to the injured individual first when they arrive.

If you refuse care at the scene, visit your doctor or an urgent care center as soon as possible for a full evaluation. Delaying medical care could prove detrimental to your health and the case.

3. Call an Injury Attorney

Call an attorney as soon as you feel well enough to do so. The sooner you file a claim, the sooner you will be able to recover compensation for the damages you have incurred.

If you were hurt in a motor vehicle collision, turn to Stephen B. Kaufman, P.C., for quality legal guidance. You can learn more about his experience helping injured victims recover compensation following automobile accidents by visiting his website. To schedule an initial consultation with a seasoned personal injury lawyer in the Bronx, call (718) 822-0500.