If you've been involved in auto, truck, or motorcycle accident that wasn't your fault and resulted in personal injury, what you do and the decisions you make immediately following the accident will go a long way in determining what type of settlement you receive, or if you receive one at all. The attorneys of Skousen, Gulbrandsen & Patience, PLC remind you that there is a protocol to follow in order to ensure that your rights and your future are both protected. Make certain that happens by following these simple steps.

In the immediate aftermath of accidents in high traffic areas, many drivers feel the need to move their vehicle to the side of the road if possible. DON'T. Rule number one is to leave your vehicle as is and remain at the scene of the accident until the authorities instruct you otherwise. Likewise, make sure to cooperate fully with the investigating officers, while making certain not to make statements implying personal blame or liability.

Next, get yourself checked out. If serious injuries occur, it is important to seek appropriate medical attention as soon as possible. Even if injuries aren't apparent, however, it's still important to seek medical attention. It is common for some accident related injuries to seem minor or even non-existent at first. Should a problem pop up a day or two after the accident and you haven't been thoroughly examined by a doctor, you may have just thrown the possibility of a personal injury settlement out the window.

Lastly but perhaps most importantly, consult an attorney as quickly as you possibly can. It can't be overemphasized how important it is to move forward with proper, qualified legal representation. By contacting an experienced attorney who specializes in injury and accident law, you'll be well on your way to protecting your rights and receiving the settlement you deserve.

In the emotional aftermath of an accident, it's often hard to think and act in a rational manner, and even more so if an injury is involved. Despite the difficulty involved, taking the right steps and precautions could be the most important thing you ever do. Consult the steps above and commit them to memory. Hopefully you'll never need to use them, but if you do, they will help you preserve a potential personal injury claim.