Last Updated: Aug 10, 2026
Read Time: 3 mins
The very first thing that you should do after an accident is to seek medical attention. Check for injuries and even if they aren’t immediately visible, contact your doctor. There are injuries that may be present but not instantly felt because your body is experiencing a rush of adrenaline following the accident. Injuries like whiplash and herniated discs may not hurt right after but the day after an accident you can feel them.
In most cases, if your injuries aren’t severe you won’t need to go to the hospital. However, getting yourself checked out is a great way to catch silent killers like internal bleeding. If you aren’t in need of an ambulance then dial 911 to report the accident to the police. If possible take pictures of the accident and the circumstances of the accident. This could be road conditions, traffic signs that aren’t labeled, and any damages to the vehicles.
You should refrain from giving a statement to the insurance company of the at-fault driver. They could use your words against you and that is why you should only speak to your lawyer.
What Should I Do if an Adjuster from the At-fault Individual’s Insurance Calls?
You should always refer the opposing insurance calls to your insurance company or to your lawyer. In most scenarios, the insurance company of the at-fault individual is looking to have you agree to a settlement. Typically this is done before they even attempt to calculate your damages. Until your lawyer has given you their expert opinion on what to do, the best thing to do is not rush it. You could end up settling for far less than what you are worth if you do.
What Kind of Damages Could I Be Entitled To?
If you suffered injuries due to a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence there are two main types of damages you can recover. The first is compensatory. These damages are typically property damage, current and future medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. The second is punitive damages. These are pretty rare in auto accidents though and not many people see anything from punitive damages.
A car accident is often an emotionally and physically traumatic event and that is why talking to a car accident lawyer in Memphis TN may be beneficial. Most times after an accident people are unsure of what to do to move forward. One of the best steps you can take is to contact a lawyer so you can start recovering the compensation.
A trusted lawyer can help walk you through the process so you can spend more time on healing and less time worrying about what to do next. In order to help you through this process the team here at Patterson Bray, PLLC has compiled some frequently asked questions about car accidents.
If you have been in a car accident it is often in your best interest to contact a car accident lawyer in Memphis, Tennessee for more information.
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