Scranton Car Accident Lawyer
Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a bustling city filled with rich history, scenic parks, and a growing population. Known for its industrial roots and landmarks like the Electric City Trolley Museum and the Steamtown National Historic Site, it is a hub of activity year-round. With the inevitable flow of traffic comes the unfortunate reality of car accidents. Knowing what to do at the scene of an accident is crucial for both legal and medical reasons. Car accident lawyers in Scranton like Munley Law are well-versed in guiding Scranton residents through these stressful moments, offering expert advice and representation.
Prioritize safety at the scene of a car accident
The first and foremost thing to do is ensure everyone’s safety, including your own.
Important safety measures to implement at the scene of a car accident
- Move Vehicles: If possible, move the vehicles out of the traffic to a safer location.
- Turn on Hazard Lights: Make sure to turn on your car’s hazard lights to alert oncoming traffic.
- Check for Injuries: Quickly assess if you or anyone else has sustained injuries and call for medical assistance if needed.
Contact emergency services (EMS) at the scene of a Scranton car accident
It’s important to get professional assistance on the scene as quickly as possible.
Steps to take when contacting EMS at the scene of an accident:
- Call 911: Even if the accident seems minor, it’s always a good idea to call for help. If you or anyone else involved has sustained serious injuries, call 911 right away.
- On-Site Evaluation: Allow emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to evaluate your condition at the scene. They can provide first aid and determine whether you need to be taken to the hospital.
Seek Medical Attention
Your well-being is paramount, and some injuries may not be immediately apparent. This is essential for your case and will be difficult to prove thereafter if you do not seek medical care after your accident.
After a car accident, seeking medical attention promptly and thoroughly is crucial. Here are some steps to ensure you get the necessary medical care:
- Go to the Emergency Room: Even if you feel okay, it’s a good idea to get checked out at an emergency room as soon as possible. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not show immediate symptoms.
- Follow medical advice: If you’re advised to get X-rays, MRIs, or other diagnostic tests, do so promptly. Follow all treatment plans and take prescribed medications as directed.
- Consult Specialists: Depending on your injuries, you may need to consult with specialists like orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, or physical therapists for more specialized care.
- Keep All Medical Records: Retain copies of all medical evaluations, treatments, prescriptions, and bills. These documents are important when making insurance claims or legal proceedings.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all follow-up appointments to ensure that you’re healing as expected and to adjust any treatment plans as necessary.
- Monitor for Late-Appearing Symptoms: Some symptoms may appear days or even weeks after the accident. If you start to notice new symptoms, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
- Keep a medical journal: Note down how you’re feeling physically and emotionally after the accident. This can help your healthcare providers understand the progression of your symptoms and can be valuable in legal claims.
- Consult Your Lawyer: Keep your legal team updated on your medical status, especially if new symptoms arise or if you are referred to specialists for further evaluation and treatment.
By following these steps, you ensure that you are taking the necessary precautions for your health while also preparing for any insurance claims or legal actions you may need to take.
Gather information and details for your Scranton car accident
Accurate and comprehensive information will be crucial in any subsequent legal or insurance proceedings.
- Identify the officers: Allstate advises that you record the name and badge numbers of all officers who respond to the accident.
- Request a police report: Make sure a police report is filed, as it is a critical document for insurance and legal procedures.
- Be honest but limited: Provide necessary information to the police but avoid making any admissions or speculative statements.
Collect the following information for your Scranton car accident case:
- Driver Information: Exchange names, contact details, and insurance information with the other driver(s).
- Witness Statements: Take down contact information of any witnesses who can help clarify what happened.
- Photographs: Take pictures of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, damage, and any relevant road conditions.
Health checkpoints for your Scranton car accident
- Immediate Care: If you’re seriously injured, get medical attention immediately.
- Follow-Up Visits: Even if you feel fine initially, it’s wise to visit a healthcare provider for a check-up.
- Document Everything: Keep a record of all medical visits, treatments, and any related expenses.
- Consult a Car Accident Lawyer
What shouldn’t I do at the scene of a car accident?
Avoiding certain actions at the scene of an auto accident can be just as important as knowing what to do. Here are some things you should definitely NOT do:
- Don’t leave the scene: Leaving the scene of an accident, especially before exchanging information or before police arrive, can result in criminal charges.
- Don’t admit fault: While it’s important to be honest with the authorities, never admit fault at the scene. Saying things like “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault” can later be used against you.
- Don’t neglect to call 911: Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to have an official police report for insurance and potential legal reasons.
- Don’t forget to document: Some people neglect to take pictures or collect witness information. These can be invaluable in insurance claims or legal proceedings.
- Don’t refuse medical attention: Sometimes adrenaline can mask pain or injuries. Refusing medical attention at the scene may not only jeopardize your health but also affect future insurance claims or legal action.
- Don’t discuss details: Avoid discussing the specifics of the accident with anyone other than the police or your attorney. Conversations can be misinterpreted or misrepresented.
- Don’t ignore witnesses: If there are witnesses, don’t forget to collect their contact information. Their account could be crucial for insurance or legal processes.
- Don’t agree to private settlements: Sometimes the other party might propose to handle things “off the record”. This is risky and can create complications later on.
- Don’t provide unnecessary information: Only give your insurance details, name, and contact information to the other driver. Avoid sharing personal identifiers like your Social Security number.
- Don’t Delay Legal Advice: The sooner you consult with a lawyer, the better protected your rights will be. Waiting too long can compromise your ability to file a claim or lawsuit.
By being aware of these “don’ts,” you can better protect yourself legally and ensure that the accident is documented and handled as accurately and fairly as possible.
Lawyer consultation steps
Navigating the legal labyrinth post-accident can be complex, and professional advice can be invaluable.
- Early Consultation: The sooner you consult a lawyer, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Case Evaluation: A skilled lawyer can help evaluate the merits of your case and guide you through the legal process.
- Representation: Should your case go to court, a competent lawyer will represent your interests effectively.
Accidents can happen to anyone, and being prepared can make a world of difference in how you manage the aftermath. From prioritizing safety to consulting a car accident lawyer, these steps are essential for anyone involved in a car accident in Scranton. Navigating post-accident procedures with Munley Law’s personal injury team of experienced car accident lawyers, can provide the crucial legal guidance you need. We offer free initial consultations and have a track record of achieving favorable results for their clients, making them a top choice for legal representation in Scranton.
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys
227 Penn Ave.
Scranton, PA 18503
(570)865-4699
Scranton Practice Areas
