Your Guide to What to Do After a Car Accident in Rhode Island
Being in a car accident can be a stressful time. From injuries to property damage, there are numerous issues that need to be addressed. This is why you want to have a personal injury lawyer in Rhode Island on your side. They can navigate the process for you and detail what to do after a car accident in Rhode Island. At Inman & Tourgee Attorneys at Law, we have the expertise that our clients can count on when they find themselves in these situations.
We have compiled this step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident in Rhode Island, so you can have the roadmap you need to navigate this difficult time.
Step-by-Step Guide of What To Do After a Car Accident in Rhode Island
From when to call a car accident lawyer in Rhode Island to what to do on the scene, read this step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident in Rhode Island.
Step 1 – Check for Injuries and Call 911
The first and most important thing to do following a car accident in Rhode Island is to check for injuries. If you are able, call 911. It is extremely important for a medical professional to assess you and determine what care you need. When calling 911, police will arrive and write a report. They will document damage, ask what happened, and get everyone’s information. All of this will be put in an accident report. The accident report is a crucial document when it comes to investigating the accident, determining fault, and filing a lawsuit.
Step 2 – Document the Accident Scene
If you can, document the accident scene. A car accident lawyer in Providence, RI, and throughout the state will use this evidence in your case. You want to have photos of the damage, witness statements, and any other information about the accident. This is also another important part of what to do after a car accident in Rhode Island. Without documentation from the scene, it may be difficult to prove what happened and who is at fault.
Step 3 – Seek Medical Treatment Immediately
Many people in an accident often put off this crucial step if they have no visible injuries at the scene. You want a medical professional to evaluate you as soon as possible. You may have internal injuries that are not visible. Having a healthcare professional examine you, it will create a medical record that can be helpful later.
Even if you just have a headache, it can develop into much more down the road. If you do not seek medical attention, but then recognize a problem down the road, it may be difficult to link your injuries to the accident. This makes it very difficult to file insurance claims and lawsuits.
Step 4 – Report the Accident Properly in Rhode Island
As we mentioned earlier, you want to be sure to file a police report. This is a legal record of the accident that happened, who was involved, and any potential witnesses.
Car accident laws in Rhode Island state that you must report any accident that results in injury, death, or includes over $1,000 in damage to local or state police. You must also file a state accident form with the DMV within 21 days.
Don’t forget to report the accident to your insurance company promptly. This will create a record with them so they are aware of what happened.
Step 5 – Be Careful When Speaking With Insurance Companies
When calling the insurance company, simply state the facts. When it comes to what to do after a car accident in Rhode Island, don’t take responsibility and don’t accuse anyone of being at fault. When you speak to an insurance adjuster after a car accident, they will try to ask you many questions. If you answer them without consulting your personal injury lawyer, it may hurt you down the road.
At Inman & Tourgee Attorneys at Law, we handle all correspondence with insurance companies so you don’t have to worry. We know what information to give and how to properly answer your questions.
Step 6 – Understand Rhode Island Fault Rules
Rhode Island is one of only 13 states in the country that follow a pure comparative fault system. Under Rhode Island law, comparative negligence is followed. This means that you can still recover damages even if you are found to be 99% at fault. But your percentage of fault reduces your compensation. This is why insurance companies may argue that one party was more at fault, so they can minimize their payout. This is another reason why you want to have a personal injury lawyer working for you.
In other states, even if you are found to be at 1% fault, you can not recover damages.
Step 7 – When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
When looking at what to do after a car accident in Rhode Island, you certainly want to contact a personal injury lawyer. They will navigate the legal process so you can concentrate on your injuries. Your personal injury lawyer will make sure you have all the proper legal documentation and evidence to obtain a fair settlement. They will explore various types of compensation that can include:
- Current & future medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain & suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability
At Inman & Tourgee, you can count on us to get the results you need!
Frequently Asked Questions After RI Car Accidents
What can I expect during the legal process after my accident?
Each case is different, but may involve several stages. This includes filing a lawsuit, discovery, negotiating a settlement, and maybe even a trial.
What types of injuries are common in car accidents?
Common injuries include whiplash, concussions, fractures, and back injuries.
What do I do if the other driver’s insurance company contacts me?
Do not talk to the other driver’s insurance company. Refer all calls to your lawyer.
Have You Been in a Car Accident in Rhode Island? Call us Today!
At Inman & Tourgee, we get personal injury case results for Rhode Island car accident victims. You can count on us to fight for you so you get the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been in a car accident, call us today at 401-823-9200 or reach out to us online to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your case and get to work for you.