A personal injury accident can turn your life upside down in a matter of seconds. Whether you were injured in a car accident, truck crash, motorcycle collision, or rideshare incident, you may be dealing with pain and uncertainty. It is normal to feel overwhelmed, especially when you are unsure what steps to take next.
At the Law Office of Joshua P. Golson, our car accident attorneys help people in Columbia, SC who are facing injuries after an accident. Our goal is to give you a clear plan so you can protect your health and your rights. The actions you take immediately after an accident can have a major impact on your ability to recover compensation later. Reach out to our lawyers to see how we can help.
Stay Calm and Prioritize Safety
After an accident, your first priority should always be safety. If you can, move to a safe location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and, if you have them, set up warning triangles or flares. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately.
Even if you feel okay, it is important to remember that injuries can appear hours or even days later. If you are in shock or feel unsteady, try not to make major decisions until you are in a safer and more stable state.
Get Medical Attention—Even If You Feel “Fine”
One of the most important steps after a personal injury accident is to get medical attention. Many injuries do not show symptoms right away. A medical professional can identify injuries such as whiplash, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage that may not be obvious at the scene.
Seeking medical care also helps establish a clear record of your injuries, which is essential if you later file a personal injury claim. If you wait too long to see a doctor, insurance companies may argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident.
Document the Scene Thoroughly
Documentation is one of the most powerful tools you have after an accident. The more information you collect at the scene, the stronger your case may be later. Below are key steps to help you document the scene.
Take Photos of Damage and Injuries
Take photos from multiple angles, including:
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Traffic signals or stop signs
- Skid marks
- Visible injuries
- Any hazards or obstructions
Photos can help show what happened and can prevent disputes about the accident later.
Get Names and Contact Info for Witnesses
If anyone witnessed the accident, ask for their name and contact information. Witness statements can be valuable, especially when fault is disputed.
File a Police Report and Keep a Copy
A police report provides an official record of the accident. If the officer comes to the scene, make sure you request a copy of the report or the report number. This documentation can be critical when dealing with insurance companies or if you need to file a claim later.
Be Careful What You Say to Insurance Companies
After an accident, you will likely hear from insurance adjusters. Insurance companies may seem helpful at first, but their goal is to limit payouts. What you say early on can impact the outcome of your claim.
Here are some guidelines for dealing with insurance companies:
- Provide basic information such as your name, contact information, and policy number.
- Do not admit fault or apologize.
- Avoid giving detailed statements until you have spoken with a lawyer.
- Do not accept a quick settlement offer without understanding the full extent of your injuries.
If you are unsure what to say, you can refer insurance companies to your attorney. Having legal representation can protect you from making statements that could harm your claim.
Avoid Posting on Social Media After the Accident
It is common for people to post updates on social media after an accident, but this can be risky. Insurance companies and opposing parties often review social media for information that could be used against you.
Avoid posting:
- Photos of yourself looking fine
- Details about the accident
- Any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault
- Updates about your injuries or recovery
Even seemingly harmless posts can be taken out of context and used to reduce your claim. The best way to protect yourself and your claim is to go dark on social media until after your claim is settled. Insurance companies will drag any scrap of evidence they can before a judge or during negotiations to limit compensation.
When to Call a Personal Injury Lawyer
You do not have to wait until your case begins to get complicated to contact a lawyer. In many situations, contacting a personal injury attorney early can make a major difference in the outcome of your case.
Consider calling a lawyer if:
- You were injured and need medical care
- You have questions about your rights or options
- The other party is denying fault
- The insurance company is offering a low settlement
- You were involved in a serious crash or a crash with a commercial vehicle
- You feel pressured to accept a settlement quickly
A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Why Columbia, SC Residents Choose the Law Office of Joshua P. Golson
People in Columbia, South Carolina choose the Law Office of Joshua P. Golson because we focus on clear communication, strong advocacy, and real results. We know that being injured in an accident can affect every part of your life, including your ability to work, care for your family, and recover.
Our team is here to help you:
- Understand what to do after an accident
- Build a strong case based on evidence
- Communicate with insurance companies
- Protect your rights and your future
- Pursue fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
If you were injured in a car accident, truck accident, motorcycle accident, or rideshare accident, we can help you explore your options and take the next steps.
Get Legal Support That Fights for You
After a personal injury, you should not have to face the legal process alone. The Law Office of Joshua P. Golson can provide the guidance and support you need to move forward.
If you are unsure what to do next, contact us today at (803) 284-8573 for your free, confidential consultation. We can help you understand your options, review your case, and explain the next steps.
Your recovery and your future matter. Getting the right support early can make a real difference in the outcome of your case. If you were injured in Columbia, do not wait to protect your rights. Reach out to the Law Office of Joshua P. Golson for help and guidance during this difficult time.
