What to Do After a Car Accident in South Bend

Whether a car accident in South Bend is minor or more serious, those affected are often left with pressing questions about what steps to take. Immediate actions, proper documentation, and legal guidance can influence the outcome of insurance claims and potential legal proceedings. So, where should you start?

Should I Contact the Police After a Crash?

Indiana law mandates that drivers notify the police if the crash results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Officers can create a report, which often becomes a valuable piece of evidence when resolving insurance disputes or legal claims. The report typically includes the officer’s observations, witness statements, and details about road conditions or traffic violations.

Contacting them is always a good idea, even if you do not think there are significant injuries or property damage. Having an official report may help avoid later disagreements about fault or damage.

Should I Go to the Hospital?

Medical attention should be the next priority, even if no pain is immediately felt. Symptoms related to soft-tissue injuries, concussions, or internal damage may not appear right away. Prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider allows for early diagnosis and can connect injuries to the incident. This link may be necessary for insurance claims or future proceedings involving compensation.

Follow through with any prescribed treatment plans and keep documentation of doctor visits, prescriptions, and recommendations. Any delay in care might raise questions from insurers about the severity of the injury.

Should I Report the Accident to My Insurance Company?

Most policies require timely notice and cooperation during the claims process; failing to do so may lead to delays in compensation or even denial of coverage.

When speaking with a representative, share only the facts without speculation or blame. Providing accurate information while avoiding assumptions about fault allows for a more efficient claims process. If there is any dispute about liability or coverage, those issues may require further legal review.

Can I Collect Evidence at the Scene?

If it is safe to do so, gathering evidence can help document the circumstances of the collision. Examples include taking photos of the vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Contact information for witnesses should also be collected, as their statements could become important later.

Additionally, writing down the time, weather conditions, traffic signals, and behavior of other drivers can help refresh your memory if questions arise weeks or months later. Those details may support or clarify the version of events reflected in the police report.

What Should I Avoid Doing After a Crash?

There are several common mistakes that may interfere with a legal or insurance claim:

• Leaving the scene without exchanging information or waiting for law enforcement may result in penalties.
• Admitting fault or apologizing at the scene could later be used as evidence of liability.
• Posting about the crash on social media may also lead to complications, especially if statements contradict official reports or medical records.
• Do not accept any settlement or sign documents from another party’s insurer without speaking with a car accident lawyer.

Why and When Should I Speak With a Lawyer?

Legal guidance is helpful when injuries are involved, when fault is disputed, or when insurance companies offer compensation that appears too low. A lawyer can evaluate medical records, review police reports, and negotiate with insurance representatives. In some cases, formal legal action may be necessary to recover the cost of medical care, lost wages, or property damage.

Timing is important! Indiana law places a two-year deadline on filing a personal injury claim stemming from a vehicle accident. Acting early allows more time for gathering records and preparing a thorough, successful claim.

Let the South Bend Car Accident Lawyers at Wilson & Kinsman, LLC Fight to Protect Your Rights and Get You the Compensation You Deserve

Our South Bend car accident lawyers at Wilson & Kinsman, LLC are available to discuss the details of your potential claim and offer guidance based on Indiana law. Call 574-522-1900, book online now, or submit a form for your free consultation. With office locations in Elkhart and South Bend, Indiana, we proudly serve clients in St. Joseph County and throughout the state.