Being involved in an accident is a traumatizing experience. By following a few simple steps, the aftermath can be a little less painful and help resolve some of the problems that can result in the future.

Top ten things to do immediately following an auto accident:

1. Stop: If you are able to, stop immediately and get off the road. Failure to do so may result in criminal prosecution.

2. Move vehicles out of harms way, if possible: If you can, get far off the road to prevent other vehicles from getting involved.

3. CALL 911: Police officers and emergency services will be there as soon as possible to assist you and any one else involved.

4. Don’t admit blame: Do not admit blame to any one or make any statements taking blame for the accident.

5. Get other drivers information: Get names, addresses, phone numbers and car information (license plate and insurance) from everyone involved. Also get information from any passengers in or witnesses to the accident. Keep a copy of this information (otherwise you may have to pay to get a copy from the police).

6. Take Photographs: Whether it’s with a camera phone or a disposable camera, documenting the accident with photos is very important. Get pictures of damage on any vehicles involved. Also get pictures of license plates and injuries of any persons involved.

7. Tell the officer your injuries: The officer’s report will be the first documentation of the accident, so it is very important that you tell him/her any pain you feel. Failure to report an injury at this time, waiting to report it later on will cause the insurance companies to be suspicious.

8. Seek medical attention: If injured at all, seek medical attention. Often the shock of the accident releases large amounts of adrenaline into our blood. This can cover and dampen pain temporarily and can sometimes trick you into thinking your fine. Then later on your feel pain.

9. Contact your insurance company: Follow their instructions with full cooperation.

10. Contact an attorney: Call our office at (702) 382-0000. We are here to help. An accident can be a terrible thing, but the aftermath can be just as bad with medical bills, lost wages during recovery time, car repairs and other expenses. You need help, fast!

KEY STRATEGY, BE PEPARED!

Have an emergency kit in your vehicle at all times, including:

• First aid

• Flashlight

• Candles

• Disposable camera

• Pad & pen

• Flares/warning signals

Stay safe!

Adam S. Kutner

Over the past 15 years I have had the pleasure of representing thousands of wonderful people in the Las Vegas valley. After finishing law school in 1991, I decided to become a personal injury attorney because of my nature; when someone is hurt, I feel a need to help. Prior to opening up my own firm in 1995, I worked for some brilliant attorneys in town, in addition to working as an insurance defense attorney. It was there I got to see the other side of what happens when a personal injury claim is filed. It’s just one of the things that set me apart from other lawyers in my field. I have seen both sides of the process people go through when injured, giving my clients and I the upper hand in the cases we represent.

It is my duty to provide the best services possible for my clients as they are going through a rough and challenging time in their lives. By keeping my clients informed on a regular basis and preparing them for what’s to come I help minimize anxiety and make the process as painless as possible. I am here to take care of the legal process, so my clients can do what they need to do…get healthy.

My first posting is an important one, as I’m always asked by people, “What do I do if I get in a car accident?” I’ve answered that below with specifics on who to call first.

Watch for more posts to come as I will be here several times a week to inform you on the latest information involving:

• Traffic accidents/dangers
• Safety tips
• Legal updates dealing with injury and safety having an effect on the Las Vegas community, Nevada as well as our country
• Fun Facts
• Information on the community in which we live
• Medical updates
• And much, much more

Adam S. Kutner