What do I do?!

List of important “To-do’s” after you have been in a motor vehicle accident in Utah


TALK TO NO ONE: Do not talk to anyone about your accident except your personal injury attorney in Utah or investigators from the law firm. If someone calls requesting information, refer them to your accident lawyer. If you do not have a personal injury attorney, be careful about the information you give out. Cooperate with your insurance company but be cautious about talking to the other person’s insurance company.

YOUR DOCTOR: Please keep all appointments with your doctor(s) and see them as necessary for treatment of your injuries. Cases are sometimes lost because a client delays seeking treatment for injuries or does not complete treatment. Always tell the doctors about all of your complaints. Please advise your accident attorney of the names and addresses of any additional doctors you may see.

RECORDS OF COMPLAINTS: Keep a daily or weekly record of your complaints and progress. A diary is helpful when you are later called upon to recall and relate your pain and suffering.

LOST WAGES: Please keep a daily or weekly record of all the days or hours lost from work because of your injuries. Obtain letters from your doctors and your employer to document your lost wages.

MEDICAL BILLINGS: Obtain and keep duplicate copies of all medical, hospital and prescription bills. Also keep records of any other expenses you may have in connection with your accident, such as the hiring of extra help. All of your bills should be paid by a check and you should obtain and keep receipts. Also, remember to keep a list of all your medical bills and mileage costs incurred in going to your doctor.

CAR REPAIR: Do not have your automobile repaired until you are sure that you and your accident lawyer have pictures of it.

WITNESSES: Immediately write down the name, address and telephone number of any and all witnesses you may learn of. Write down names of family members, friends, or coworkers who would be able to testify about how this accident has affected your life. They need to be able to explain differences before, between, and after the accident.

SAVE YOUR CAST: If your injury requires a cast, brace, traction, or other appliance, save it. When the case is set for hearing you may bring these items with you as evidence of your injury.

PHOTOGRAPHS: Obtain photographs pertaining to your case which you or any of your friends/family has taken. These photos may be of your injuries, damages to your car, or even photos of the accident scene. Take plenty of pictures.

HOSPITAL AND DOCTORS BILLS: Have your own auto insurance carrier pay as many hospital and doctors bills as possible under the medical payment provisions of your policy. When you have met the limits of your auto insurance you should then have your health insurance pay your hospital and doctor bills. Do not expect doctors and hospitals to wait until your case is settled to receive payment.

TALK TO A PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER: Calling a personal injury lawyer in Utah is a smart way to find out if you have a case and when you call the right personal injury attorney it is always free.