What to Do After a Car Accident: A Guide to Protecting Your Health and Legal Rights

No one ever expects to be involved in a car accident. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious crash, the aftermath can be disorienting and overwhelming. Beyond the immediate shock and potential injuries, victims are often left wondering how to pay for medical bills, fix their vehicle, or take time off work. Knowing what steps to take after a car accident is essential—not just for your safety, but also to protect your legal rights.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Immediately after a car accident, check for injuries. If you or anyone else is hurt, call 911 right away. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s critical to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some conditions, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away.

Medical documentation will also play a key role in any insurance or legal claim that follows.

Step 2: Document the Scene

If you are physically able, take photos of the accident scene. Include vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Also, collect the following:

• Names and contact information of all drivers and passengers
  
• Insurance and registration details
  
• Names and contact info of any witnesses
  

These details can support your claim if there are disputes about what happened.

Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault. Your attorney can assist in communicating with insurance companies to ensure that your statements are protected and accurate.

Step 4: Know Your Legal Rights

In Pennsylvania, you may be eligible to receive compensation if another driver’s negligence caused your injuries. This can include:

• Medical bills (past and future)
  
• Lost wages
  
• Pain and suffering
  
• Vehicle repairs or replacement
  

Pennsylvania follows a “choice no-fault” insurance system, which can affect your ability to sue for damages depending on your policy. That’s why speaking with a personal injury lawyer is critical after a crash, even if you’re unsure who was at fault.

When to Call a Car Accident Attorney

If your accident involved significant damage or injury, or if you’re facing disputes with insurers, it’s time to call a lawyer. At Caputo & Mariotti, we handle car accident cases across Pennsylvania with dedication and personal attention. Our legal team investigates the crash, gathers evidence, negotiates with insurers, and, if necessary, takes your case to court to fight for full and fair compensation.

We understand how car accidents can disrupt lives. That’s why we offer free consultations and no upfront fees—we only get paid if we win your case.

Don’t Delay—Act Now to Protect Your Claim

Time matters in car accident claims. Pennsylvania has a statute of limitations, meaning you only have a limited window to file a lawsuit. Delays can also make it harder to gather evidence and secure witness testimony.If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Contact Caputo & Mariotti today for a free consultation. Let us help you focus on healing while we handle the legal heavy lifting.