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What To Do After A Car Accident

Michael Agruss

Written and Reviewed by Michael Agruss

  • Managing Partner and Personal Injury Lawyer at Mike Agruss Law.
  • Over 20 years of experience in Personal Injury.
  • Over 8000+ consumer rights cases settled.
  • Graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law: Juris Doctor, 2004.


What To Do After A Car Accident

Car accidents are nothing if not stressful, and often frightening, whether or not you’re injured. It’s hard to keep a calm head after an accident; but, if you do end up involved in one, keeping a few important things in mind will help your case later on.

First of all, never leave the scene of an accident. Whether or not it was your fault, if you leave the scene before the police arrive you could be charged with a hit-and-run, which is a criminal offense. If anyone involved is injured, don’t move them, unless you have current medical training; neck and spinal cord injuries become more serious when the victim is improperly moved. The right thing to do is call 911: report the accident and request an emergency vehicle (this also holds true if you’re a passing good samaritan).

When talking to the other party, don’t apologize—unfortunately, this can be seen as an admission of guilt. Even if you think the accident was your fault, there are often other factors at work, which will come out as the investigation unfolds. Often both parties share the blame; anything you say at the scene of the accident may come back to haunt you in court. For this same reason, don’t get into lengthy conversations with witnesses. Exchange names and contact information, politely, but try not to discuss the accident.

Finally, remember to breathe and stay calm. When the police arrive, things can get even tenser; don’t argue with the officers or disrespect them. Though it doesn’t always seem like it, they are there to help—answer their questions, do what they ask. It’s also a good idea to take some photos of the accident scene (most cell phones have cameras), and when you get home, take a few notes on what happened, while the event is still fresh in your mind.

If you have been injured in a car accident, contact Mike Agruss Law, for a free consultation at 312-224-4695. Mike Agruss Law, handles personal injury cases throughout Illinois. Mike Agruss Law, will handle your personal injury case quickly, will advise you every step of the way, and will not hesitate to go to trial for you. This litigation strategy will provide you with the best possible compensation.

Lastly, Mike Agruss Law, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire our Chicago personal injury law firm–just the opportunity to seek justice. Call us today at 312-224-4695.

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