Car accidents can happen in an instant, but the choices you make right after can affect your health, your finances, and your legal rights for years to come. Whether you’re driving the streets of Roswell or anywhere across New Mexico, knowing exactly what to do after a car accident can make all the difference.
As a personal injury attorney here in New Mexico, I’ve seen far too many cases where simple mistakes cost people the compensation they deserved. Let me walk you through seven critical steps to protect yourself after a car accident.
1. Prioritize Safety First
The first few moments after a crash can be chaotic. Take a deep breath, stay calm, and check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately.
If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to a safe location. Turn on your hazard lights. Never leave the scene of the accident, even if the damage seems minor. In New Mexico, leaving the scene can result in criminal charges.
2. Call Law Enforcement
Even if the accident seems minor, always contact local law enforcement to report the crash. The police will create an official accident report, which can become a key piece of evidence in your case later.
Here in Roswell, the Roswell Police Department will typically respond, but in more rural areas, the New Mexico State Police or county sheriff may arrive. Be respectful, but avoid admitting fault or making statements that could later be used against you.
3. Exchange Information
Collect important information from all parties involved, including:
Full names
Phone numbers
Driver’s license numbers
Insurance information
License plate numbers
Vehicle make and model
Also, get contact information for any witnesses who saw the accident happen. Eyewitness statements can become powerful evidence if liability becomes disputed.
4. Document the Scene
Use your phone to take plenty of pictures and videos of:
Vehicle damage (all angles)
Skid marks
Road conditions
Traffic signs and signals
Any visible injuries
The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing legal action.
5. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it’s critical to get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Many serious injuries, such as concussions, whiplash, or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away.
In New Mexico personal injury cases, having prompt medical documentation can strongly support your claim and help prove that your injuries were directly caused by the accident.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance provider to report the accident, but be cautious about providing too many details right away. Stick to the basic facts, and avoid speculating about fault or injuries.
Important: You are not obligated to give a recorded statement to the other party’s insurance company. Before you speak to any adjuster, it’s wise to consult a personal injury attorney who can help protect your rights.
7. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
The truth is, insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to minimize payouts, not maximize your recovery. An experienced personal injury attorney can:
Investigate your accident
Handle negotiations with insurance companies
Help you recover full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more
If your accident happened here in Roswell or anywhere across New Mexico, I would be honored to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Handle This Alone
Accidents are stressful enough without having to fight with insurance companies or navigate complex legal processes. The sooner you get an experienced attorney involved, the better your chances of protecting your rights and receiving the full compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident in Roswell or anywhere in New Mexico, contact our office today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
