Steps To Take After a Car Crash
After a car accident in Scranton, first check whether anyone is injured and call 911 when emergency assistance is needed. Move to a safe location if you can do so without creating another hazard. Cooperate with police and give an accurate account of what happened, but avoid guessing about facts you do not know.
- Exchange contact, license, and insurance information with the other driver
- If it’s safe to do so, take photos or video of the vehicles, damage, road layout, traffic signals, skid marks, weather conditions, and any visible injuries
- Get names and contact information for any witnesses
Reporting a Scranton Car Accident
Get medical care and keep records:
- Seek appropriate medical attention. Some injuries are immediately obvious, while others become more noticeable after the initial shock of a collision
- Keep copies of medical records, bills, prescriptions, repair estimates, towing charges, and evidence of time missed from work
Handle insurance carefully:
- Notify your own insurer promptly and follow the reporting requirements in your policy
- Be cautious about giving detailed recorded statements to another driver’s insurer or accepting an early settlement before you understand the extent of your injuries and losses — insurers often use these early statements and quick offers to limit what they ultimately have to pay, before the full cost of your injuries and recovery is known.
Protecting a Car Accident Claim
Pennsylvania law sets specific rules for motor vehicle insurance claims, and most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the accident. Exceptions can shorten that deadline, so don’t assume you have time to spare.
If your accident involved significant injury, disputed liability, or problems with an insurance company, a Scranton car accident lawyer can review your case and explain your options before time runs out.