What to Do After a Car Accident in Indiana: 10 Steps to Protect Your Claim

Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming and stressful, but knowing exactly what steps to take immediately afterward can significantly impact your safety, recovery, and ability to secure fair compensation. If you've been involved in a car accident in Indiana, here's a clear, essential checklist of actions to protect your interests.

1. Call 911 Immediately:

   Ensure police and medical responders come to the scene. Indiana law mandates a police report for crashes involving injury or damage.

   
   

2. Seek Medical Attention:

   Even if injuries seem minor, seek immediate medical evaluation. Injuries like whiplash or concussions can have delayed symptoms. Prompt medical attention creates vital documentation linking injuries directly to the accident.

   
   

3. Document the Accident Scene:

   Take photos or videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, and visible injuries. Accurate visual evidence can become critical later.

   
   

4. Exchange Information:

   Clearly document the other driver's contact details, driver's license number, insurance details, and license plate number. Using your phone to take clear pictures can prevent transcription mistakes.

   
   

5. Identify Witnesses:

   Gather contact information from witnesses at the scene. Eyewitness testimony can significantly strengthen your claim.

   
   

6. Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly:

   Inform your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible. Early notification helps streamline your claim process and fulfill policy requirements.

   
   

7. Obtain a Police Report:

   Request an official accident report. These reports, usually available online within 48-72 hours, contain crucial accident details.

   
   

8. Track Expenses:

   Keep meticulous records of all medical treatments, prescriptions, therapy sessions, lost wages, and related travel expenses. These records are essential for accurately calculating your compensation claim.

   
   

9. Avoid Social Media Discussions:

   Refrain from posting about your accident or injuries on social media. Insurance companies and defense attorneys frequently review social media profiles to dispute claims.

   
   

10. Consult a Trusted Indiana Car Accident Attorney:

    Early legal advice can dramatically enhance your chances of receiving fair compensation. Experienced attorneys protect your rights, negotiate effectively with insurers, and ensure that critical deadlines like Indiana’s two-year statute of limitations are met.

At Brinkley Law, our dedicated personal injury lawyer is ready to guide you through every stage following your accident. Contact Brinkley Law today for your free, no-obligation consultation. Let our experience secure the compensation you deserve and provide peace of mind during this challenging time. Act now - your recovery starts here.