What to Do When You've Been in an Auto Accident

November 8, 2022

Virtually all motorists wind up in at least one car accident throughout their many years of driving as an adult. Because teen drivers are three times more likely to be in an accident than older motorists, according to Carsurance, the younger the driver, the greater the odds of winding up in an auto accident.


Any car accident could become contested, especially if one driver primarily causes the accident but lies about how it happened. An auto accident attorney could help you to build a strong case against an offending driver.


If you find yourself involved in a car accident, you’ll need to get in touch with an auto accident lawyer quickly. There are also a few other steps to take to help you file your insurance claim and hold any liable parties accountable.


Gather Evidence and Witnesses' Contact Info


When you are able to walk and move about immediately after an accident, you should do your best to gather evidence. A cell phone camera is a good way to take photos or record video of the accident scene. The evidence can document the position of the vehicles, traffic, road conditions, and weather conditions.


If any witnesses are on the scene and are willing to provide a statement on your behalf, you should obtain their contact information. You also are required to exchange contact information with the other driver or drivers.


A police officer should compile an accident report. You should ensure your side of the story is included. If you are going to the emergency room, you should get a copy of the police report and amend any false information.


See a Doctor, File an Insurance Claim, and Retain an Attorney


Even if you do not have any obvious injuries, you should obtain a medical diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible. A doctor can diagnose and document your injuries, which helps to tie them directly to the accident.

You need to file an accident claim as soon as possible following the accident. If you are incapacitated due to injuries, a spouse or family member can notify your insurer. You should provide your insurer with the other driver's contact information, too.


One of the most important steps to take is to hire an auto accident lawyer to uphold your rights. When you have representation, insurers and debt collectors cannot contact you directly, as they must contact your attorney. Your attorney will help you file a strong claim and hold the at-fault party accountable. Contact our team of experts at Sarkisian Law Offices today if you’ve been in an accident.

Trying to figure out bills after no longer working from accident
By Sarkisian Law Offices • October 6, 2026
If a crash ended your career, Indiana law allows recovery for lost earning capacity. How those claims are calculated, proven, and contested.
Gray child car seat secured on a black car back seat, facing sideways in the rear passenger area.
By Sarkisian Law Offices • September 29, 2026
Children are injured differently than adults in crashes. Pediatric injury patterns, Indiana car seat law, and why early settlements carry real risk.
Semi-truck traveling on a Northwest Indiana interstate highway
By Sarkisian Law Offices • September 22, 2026
A truck crash rarely has one liable party. Learn when an Indiana trucking company is responsible, from negligent hiring to hours-of-service violations.
Attorney reviewing a contract with a client across a desk in a law office
By Sarkisian Law Offices • September 15, 2026
What to ask in a free consultation with an Indiana injury lawyer, from contingency fees and case costs to comparative fault and filing deadlines.
Two cars after a rear-end collision on a Northwest Indiana road
By Sarkisian Law Offices • September 8, 2026
Is the rear driver always at fault in an Indiana rear-end crash? Not always. Learn how comparative fault, brake-checking, and evidence decide who pays.
Front wheel of a black motorcycle parked on a sunlit paved street
By Sarkisian Law Offices • September 3, 2026
Indiana insurers assume riders were reckless before reviewing evidence. See how that bias cuts settlements and what evidence pushes back.
Show More