Q. What should I do after an auto accident?

A. Call for police and medical help. After receiving medical care, obtain the names, driver’s license numbers and contact information of the driver involved. Gather contact information for passengers or witnesses to the car crash. Write down any statements made by other drivers that may indicate cause or consequences of the accident. For instance, a driver may state “I’m not hurt” or “I wasn’t wearing my glasses.” In addition, note the location, date and time of the car crash. Write out a detailed description of the accident as well. Finally, obtain contact information for police at the scene of the crash.

Q. Who do I contact after an auto accident?

A. Usually, you should file a report with your insurance company, the police and your DMV. You should also contact an attorney who handles car accident cases as soon as possible after the accident has occurred. Your attorney can provide legal guidance, as well as help you handle insurance issues and recover compensation for your injuries.

Q. Should I seek medical attention after a car accident even if I don't think I've been injured?

A. Yes, it is a good idea to get medical attention after a car accident. Although you may not be in pain immediately after the accident, you may still have internal injuries that should be treated. In addition, if you fail to get checked out by a medical professional, it may hurt your chances of receiving compensation for your injury.

Q. What type of compensation can I recover after an auto accident?

A. You may be compensated for injuries, medical expenses, lost wages and punitive damages. Car accident damages vary between cases, so contact an auto accident attorney about your claim.

Q. Can a passenger recover damages for injuries caused by the driver?

A. Many states allow a passenger to collect compensation if the driver was negligent in the car crash. If the driver of the other car was negligent, the passenger can bring a claim against that driver.

Q. What happens if the car accident was my fault?

A. First, you cannot know for certain if the auto accident was your fault. For instance, some cars contain design defects that make them more susceptible for accidents. Also, even if the accident was your fault, someone else may be liable for the extent of your injuries. For example, if your health insurance did not allow for certain medical tests, you may not be responsible if your injuries have worsened. A car accident lawyer can help you evaluate your situation.

Q. What happens if I am involved in a car accident with an uninsured driver?

A. Uninsured motorist insurance coverage pays for damages caused by a driver with no insurance. Your insurance company may require a signed statement from the uninsured driver stating that he or she has no insurance. Then, you can make a claim with your own insurance company for your damages. However, some states may not require you to have uninsured/underinsured coverage on your policy.

Q. What is reckless conduct and what are its legal implications?

A. Courts are usually hard on people who act in a reckless manner. For instance, if a usually careful driver rushes home after a party with a blood alcohol level over the legal limit and hits another car, he or she probably will be responsible for the damages. These damages may include lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering and even punitive damages. However, if the driver wasn’t speeding or drunk when he or she hit the car, punitive damages would not be issued.

Q. What if my car accident attorney wants to settle my case and I want to go to trial, or vice versa?

A. Speak with your auto accident lawyer to express your thoughts about the case. Your car crash lawyer is trained to evaluate your case. If the lawyer wants to settle your car accident case, you have to listen to their point of view. Trials can be long and expensive and there is no such thing as a guaranteed win.

If your auto accident attorney wants to take the case to trial, listen to why he or she thinks this is your best option. You can always seek a second opinion, but make sure you tell your original lawyer you are doing so.