Accidents can disrupt your life in many ways, from recovering your health to dealing with insurance companies and managing the details of your claim. While car accidents are among the most common personal injury cases, other types of accidents—such as workplace injuries, slip and falls, or medical malpractice—can be just as life-altering.

At E&L, LLP, we understand that thinking about a checklist of “Do’s and Don’ts” might not be top of mind immediately after an accident. However, following these steps can help you avoid mistakes, protect your rights, and maximize your compensation.

CALL OUR ATTORNEYS FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION
(213) 213-0000

Protect Your Rights After an Accident with This Checklist

The moments immediately following an accident are crucial for gathering evidence and building your case. While you may rely on the police, your employer, or others to document the incident, the responsibility of proving your case—and securing compensation—ultimately rests on you.

To claim compensation, you must demonstrate that the other party was negligent and quantify the damages you suffered. Because insurance companies are often focused on minimizing payouts, it’s critical to take the right steps and avoid pitfalls after your accident.

The Do’s

  1. Record Evidence
  • Collect witness statements and their contact information.
  • Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
  • If cameras are nearby, request a copy of the footage.

This evidence is essential for proving your case, whether you hire a lawyer or represent yourself.

  1. File Necessary Reports
  • Notify the appropriate parties: 
    • For workplace injuries, inform your employer and complete the required forms.
    • For car accidents, call the police and file any state-mandated reports for accidents involving injuries or significant property damage.
  • Review every document carefully before signing, and be mindful of what you say in these reports.
  1. Receive Medical Treatment
  • Seek medical care as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor.
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions and attend all follow-up appointments.
  • Medical evaluations create a record of your injuries and demonstrate that you took steps to minimize your medical costs.

For example, conditions like whiplash may not present symptoms immediately. Early medical evaluation can protect your health and your claim.

  1. Be Polite, But Limit Communication with Adverse Parties
  • Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim, so avoid unnecessary discussions.
  • Consult with an attorney if you’re unsure about what to say.
  1. Keep Detailed Records
  • Organize documentation of expenses, including: 
    • Medical bills
    • Repair costs for damaged property
    • Lost wages due to missed work or reduced capacity to work
  • Keep a journal of how your injuries affect your daily life, as this may support claims for pain and suffering.
  1. Have Your Claim Evaluated by a Professional

Even if you don’t plan to hire a lawyer, a free case evaluation can give you peace of mind and help you avoid costly mistakes.

CALL OUR ATTORNEYS FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION
(213) 213-0000

The Don’ts

  1. Don’t Admit Fault
  • Avoid statements that could imply the accident was partially your fault. Even casual comments can undermine your claim.
  1. Don’t Refuse Medical Treatment
  • Declining medical attention can weaken your claim and prevent you from recovering compensation for your medical bills.
  1. Don’t Accept a Lowball Settlement Offer
    • Insurance companies may offer quick settlements to minimize their losses. These offers often don’t account for long-term treatment or complications that may arise later.
  • Wait until your treatment is complete or you’ve reached maximum medical improvement before settling.
  1. Don’t Give Recorded Statements
  • Insurance adjusters may request a recorded statement to use against you. Decline these requests and consult with an attorney.
  1. Don’t Delay Your Claim
  • Evidence can deteriorate, and delays may hurt your case. For example, a slip-and-fall hazard may be repaired before it can be documented. Act quickly to protect your rights.

CALL OUR ATTORNEYS FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION
(213) 213-0000

Do You Need a Lawyer to Claim Compensation?

If your accident is minor, you may not need an attorney. However, certain situations call for professional legal help:

  • Disputed fault or conflicting accounts of the accident.
  • Delays or non-responsiveness from the insurance company.
  • Substantial injuries or property damage.
  • Involvement of multiple parties.

A free consultation with an attorney can clarify whether legal representation is necessary for your case.

How E&L, LLP Can Help You Claim Compensation

At E&L, LLP, we know how overwhelming the claims process can feel, especially when dealing with insurance companies that prioritize their bottom line over your well-being. Our experienced personal injury attorneys specialize in a wide range of cases, including car accidents, workplace injuries, slip and falls, wrongful death, and medical malpractice.

Why Choose Us?

  • Free Case Evaluation: No cost, no obligation, and honest feedback about your case.
  • Contingency Fee Basis: You don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you.
  • 24/7 Availability: We’re here to answer your questions and concerns anytime.
  • Comprehensive Support: We handle evidence collection, insurance negotiations, and demand package drafting to build a strong case for maximum compensation.

CALL OUR ATTORNEYS FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION
(213) 213-0000

WE DO NOT GET PAID UNTIL YOU GET PAID.  THAT IS OUR GUARANTEE.