What to do if you are in an accident:

1. Call the police and have them do a report.   The police will properly document who is at fault, the names of all drivers, the owners of all vehicles, the insurance companies for the drivers, and the policy numbers. This information will be needed to pursue your claim.

2. Take pictures of the accident scene and vehicles. 

3. Take names, telephone number and directions of all the witnesses.

4. Contact an attorney immediately.  Accident law is complicated and often involves several types of insurance such as liability insurance, personal injury protection insurance, uninsured motorist insurance, medical payments insurance, and collision insurance. Insurance claims must adhere to procedural and legal guidelines or coverage may be lost. An attorney can properly present your claims for maximum value.

5. Seek medical treatment immediately.  Anyone who is injured should get medical treatment as soon as possible. The injuries may get worse without treatment. If you do not get medical treatment and properly document your injuries, the insurance companies will claim that you are not injured.   You should consult your attorney regarding your choice of doctor because some doctors have a reputation for taking your insurance money without properly treating and documenting your injuries.

6. Do not sign any papers from the insurance company.   Insurance adjusters want to settle your entire case for a very low sum of money. Many insurance adjusters tell people to sign documents up front, sometimes for an initial payment of money, and promise that more money will be paid later. In truth the papers often release the insurance company from any future payments and the person's entire claim is lost.

7. Do not give the insurance company a recorded or written statement.    If you misspeak, the insurance adjuster will try to use your own words against you. If you present your statement properly, the insurance adjuster may "lose" it or refuse to provide you with a copy or alter it. If a statement is required, it should be done in the presence of your attorney, with a certified court reporter, and with a certified interpreter (if necessary).