A car accident can be a life-changing event, leaving you with injuries, medical expenses, and legal concerns. If you’ve been involved in a crash in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, taking the right steps immediately after the accident can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
At the Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini, Accident & Injury Attorneys, we have decades of experience helping car accident victims secure the compensation they deserve. Below is a step-by-step guide to navigating the aftermath of a car accident.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your safety is the top priority. After an accident:
- Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
- If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
- Avoid moving anyone who is seriously hurt unless they are in immediate danger.
- Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention—some conditions, such as concussions or whiplash, may not show symptoms right away.
Important: Rhode Island and Massachusetts law require you to report any accident that results in injury or significant property damage.
Step 2: Move to a Safe Location (If Possible)
If it is safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. If your vehicle is undrivable, turn on hazard lights and remain inside until help arrives.
What If the Other Driver Flees the Scene?
- Do not attempt to chase the driver.
- Try to note details about their vehicle, such as the make, model, color, and license plate.
- Call 911 immediately to report a hit-and-run accident.
Step 3: Call the Police and File an Accident Report
Always call the police after an accident, even if the damage appears minor. A police report is crucial evidence for insurance claims and potential personal injury lawsuits.
Why a Police Report Matters:
- Provides official documentation of the accident.
- Helps establish fault.
- Insurance companies may require it for claims processing.
Accident Reporting Requirements
Rhode Island: You must report an accident to the police if it results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
Massachusetts: You must file a written report with the Registry of Motor Vehicles within five days if the crash caused injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
Tip: Never admit fault at the scene. Liability is determined based on evidence and legal analysis.
Step 4: Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are physically able, collect as much evidence as possible to support your claim.
Take Photos and Videos:
- Vehicle damage
- Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
- Injuries
- Traffic signs and signals
Collect Driver Information:
- Name, address, and phone number
- Insurance details
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate
Get Witness Statements:
- Ask for names and contact information.
- Witness statements can strengthen your case if the other driver disputes fault.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention (Even if You Feel Fine)
Even if you do not feel immediate pain, get checked by a doctor. Certain injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, and internal bleeding, may not appear until hours or days later.
Delaying Medical Treatment Can Hurt Your Case:
- Insurance companies may argue that your injuries were not serious.
- You may risk losing your right to file a personal injury claim.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. However, be mindful of what you say, as insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize your claim.
What Not to Say:
- “I’m okay.” This could be used to downplay your injuries.
- “It was my fault.” Liability should be determined based on evidence.
- “I don’t need a lawyer.” Insurance companies do not have your best interests in mind.
Tip: If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, do not provide a recorded statement. Instead, direct them to your attorney.
Step 7: Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Before Accepting Any Settlement
Insurance companies often offer quick, lowball settlements to avoid paying full compensation. Before accepting any offer, consult with an experienced car accident attorney.
At the Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini, Accident & Injury Attorneys, we can help you recover:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages from missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
Did You Know? Rhode Island and Massachusetts both have a three-year statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim.
Injured in a Car Accident? Get Legal Help Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, you don’t have to face the insurance companies alone. The Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini, Accident & Injury Attorneys has over 50 years of experience fighting for accident victims.
✔ No fees unless we win your case
✔ Millions recovered for injury victims
✔ Serving Rhode Island & Massachusetts
📞 Call us today at (401) 444-4444 for a FREE consultation!
