Car crashes can occur at any time and cause serious harm to those affected. If you have been injured in an accident in New Hampshire, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as you can and take measures that can help safeguard your legal rights.
Step 1: Call for urgent help
After the car accident, you need to assess yourself for injuries and potential signs of trauma. If there are other people who got hurt within the vicinity, move together to a safer spot and call 911 to ask for emergency assistance.
Step 2: Notify the authorities
In New Hampshire, you must report the accident to the police and the Department of Motor Vehicles (NH DMV) if it has resulted in an injury, death or over $1,000 in combined vehicle/property damage.
If the police respond to your call, they will investigate the incident, gather evidence, interview witnesses and submit a written report to the NH DMV.
However, if they do not investigate your car accident, you must submit an “operator’s report” on your own within 15 days from the date of the crash.
Step 3: Collect evidence
After the paramedics arrive at the scene and assess your condition, you must exchange contact details and insurance information with the other party. You will also need to take photos and videos of the accident to help strengthen the evidence of your personal injury claim.
However, if you have serious injuries, you must set this aside and ask the paramedics to take you to the nearest hospital first.
Step 4: Go to the hospital
Once you arrive at the hospital, you must seek prompt medical care for your injuries and keep a record of all your medical treatments and hospital bills. These documents are important for calculating the total amount of compensation in your claim.
Step 5: Inform your insurance provider
After you have given yourself time to rest, you must call your insurance company to inform them of what happened. Stick to the basic facts and refrain from making any statement that may lead to your self-incrimination.
Do not admit fault or downplay your injuries, as your insurer may use these statements to lower your total compensation amount.
Proactive measures can lead you to better outcomes
Though it may feel daunting to file your claim while you are still recovering from your injuries, managing your case with proactiveness can help avoid delays in the process. This step not only leads to a quicker claims process but also provides you with a stress-free journey to recovery.