Who Should You Call First After an Accident?

Car accidents happen in an instant, but the aftermath can be a confusing and stressful experience. Knowing who to call first can make a significant difference in protecting your safety, your rights, and your financial future. At Mory & Colliersmith, PLLC, we understand how overwhelming this process can feel, and we’re here to guide you through each step. This blog post explains the critical calls you need to make immediately after an accident and why each one is essential.

1. Emergency Services (911)

The first and most important call after an accident should always be to 911, especially if there are injuries, significant property damage, or potential hazards like leaking fuel. Emergency responders, including police officers and paramedics, can assess the situation and ensure that everyone receives the necessary medical attention.

Why Calling 911 is Crucial:

• Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, they can worsen over time. Paramedics can evaluate you and others at the scene, potentially saving lives.

• Police Reports: A police officer will document the accident, collect witness statements, and create an official report. This report is invaluable for insurance claims and legal cases.

• Scene Safety: Emergency personnel can secure the area, direct traffic, and address any immediate dangers.

If you’re unsure whether to call 911, err on the side of caution. It’s better to involve professionals than to risk overlooking a serious injury or liability issue.

2. The Police

Even if no one is injured, contacting the police is highly recommended. A police report provides an official record of the accident, which is critical for establishing fault and protecting you from false claims.

What Happens When You Call the Police:

• Officers will arrive at the scene to document the accident, interview witnesses, and gather evidence.

• The report will include essential details like the time, location, weather conditions, and a preliminary assessment of fault.

In Kentucky, you are legally required to report any accident involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. Failure to do so could lead to penalties or complications with insurance claims.

3. A Personal Injury Attorney

If you’ve been injured in an accident, contacting a personal injury attorney as soon as possible is one of the most important steps you can take. At Mory & Colliersmith, PLLC, we specialize in helping accident victims navigate the legal and insurance processes, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses.

Why Call an Attorney Early:

• Legal Advice: An experienced attorney will provide clear guidance on what to do (and what not to do) after an accident.

• Evidence Preservation: Your attorney can gather evidence, such as photos, videos, and witness statements, to build a strong case.

• Insurance Negotiations: Insurers often aim to minimize payouts. An attorney will fight for the full compensation you deserve.

• Peace of Mind: With an attorney handling the legal aspects, you can focus on recovering from your injuries.

By contacting a lawyer early, you can avoid common mistakes like giving statements that could be used against you or accepting a low settlement offer.

4. Your Insurance Company

With guidance from our attorney, your next call should be to your insurance company. Most insurers require policyholders to notify them of accidents promptly. When you contact your insurer, provide them with basic information about the accident, but avoid admitting fault or making detailed statements before consulting an attorney.

What to Expect When Calling Your Insurance:

• They will guide you through the process of filing a claim.

• Your policy may provide coverage for medical bills and property damage, regardless of who is at fault, especially in Kentucky’s no-fault insurance system.

• Your insurer will likely communicate with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to handle liability and compensation issues.

Let your personal injury attorney handle the detailed discussions and negotiations with the insurance companies to avoid jeopardizing your claim.

5. A Trusted Family Member or Friend

After the initial emergency calls, it’s helpful to notify a family member or trusted friend about the accident. They can provide emotional support, help you stay organized, and assist with practical needs like arranging transportation or contacting your workplace.

What Information Should You Collect at the Scene?

While you’re making these calls, it’s important to gather information that will support your insurance claim or legal case. Here’s what to collect:

• The names, contact details, and insurance information of all drivers involved.

• Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.

• Contact information for witnesses.

• A copy of the police report, or at least the report number.

If you’re unable to collect this information due to your injuries, don’t worry—your attorney can help gather the necessary details later.

What NOT to Do After an Accident

To protect yourself legally and financially, avoid these common mistakes:

• Admitting Fault: Even if you think you might be at fault, avoid apologizing or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of liability.

• Refusing Medical Attention: Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately. Always get checked by a medical professional.

• Signing Documents Without Legal Advice: Never sign a settlement offer or other documents from an insurance company without consulting your attorney.

Why Mory & Colliersmith, PLLC Should Be Your First Legal Call

At Mory & Colliersmith, we’re committed to helping accident victims secure the compensation they deserve. From medical bills and lost wages to pain and suffering, our experienced team will fight for your rights every step of the way.

What We Offer:

• Free Consultations: We’ll evaluate your case and answer your questions with no obligation.

• Personalized Attention: We treat every client like family, providing compassionate and dedicated representation.

• Proven Results: Our attorneys have a track record of securing substantial settlements for clients across Kentucky.

Knowing who to call first after a car accident can make all the difference in your recovery—physically, emotionally, and financially. Start with emergency services, then notify your insurance company and contact an experienced personal injury attorney like Mory & Colliersmith, PLLC. Our team will handle the complexities of your case so you can focus on healing.

If you’ve been in an accident and need immediate assistance, don’t wait. Call us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get back on the road to recovery.