In the recent crash in Huntington, WV, 13-year-old Laney Hudson was killed when a marked cruiser being driven by an off-duty deputy struck her. Then, just a few hours later, a collision in Oak Hill involving five vehicles left two people hospitalized and one person dead.

Most recently, three James Madison University students lost their lives in a single-car crash with a tree near the Virginia border on Route 259.

Deaths resulting from car accidents have been steadily on the rise in the U.S. over the past several years, and that’s true in the Mountain State, as well. Traffic fatalities increased in West Virginia by 12% between 2020 and 2021, following a massive 20% increase in car crash deaths between 2019 and 2020 in the state.

West Virginia car accident attorney Tim Miley, founder of personal injury firm Miley Legal, said following the proper process after a major collision could make all the difference when seeking justice for those affected in the aftermath.

“No one intends to be involved in a major car crash,” Miley said. “However, holding the responsible parties accountable not only brings a sense of justice but paves the way for new laws and safer roads in the future.”

Step 1: Ensure Safety

The first thing you should do after being involved in a serious car accident, Miley said, is to assess the situation and take action to ensure the area is as safe as possible. This includes getting out of the vehicle, if you are able, and getting yourself to the side of the road.

Check with the parties involved to determine what emergency services are needed—whether it’s the fire department, emergency medical services, or both.

Step 2: Contact Law Enforcement

You should always call the police when there’s been a car accident.

“Having law enforcement present will ensure the safety of all those involved and that the proper police reports are filed following the incident,” Miley noted.

Step 3: Collect Evidence and Information

If you’re physically able to, it’s important to collect some information while you’re at the scene of the accident. This includes the contact and insurance information of the other driver, as well as a copy of the police report from the incident.

While police will document the accident on their own, Miley advises taking your own photos and videos of the scene to strengthen your accident claim.

“Take pictures of whatever you can,” Miley explained. “That includes damage to all vehicles involved, damage to the surrounding area, and any visible injuries on all parties involved.”

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your car insurance provider of the accident you were involved in as soon as possible. They’ll ask you for a record of the incident and communicate with the other driver’s insurance company regarding your car insurance claim.

Step 5: Contact a Car Accident Attorney

The days, weeks, and months following a car accident are crucial. Medical care will be provided, claims will be filed, and lawsuits will possibly be brought forth. In order to ensure the best possible settlement offer, you need an experienced personal injury lawyer.

“During such a hectic, stressful, and often devastating time, you need someone in your corner focusing solely on the legal details so you can focus on healing,” Miley said.

About The Miley Legal Group

Miley Legal is a West Virginia law firm with a talented team of personal injury attorneys and legal staff. Serving clients in Harrison County, Monongalia County, Marion County, and other regions in West Virginia, Miley Legal handles a wide range of practice areas related to personal injury, including auto accidents, dog bites, medical malpractice, and workplace accidents.

Schedule a free case review today with one of Miley Legal’s West Virginia personal injury attorneys or visit Miley Legal at one of its two locations: 229 W Main St, Clarksburg, WV 26301 and 250 Scott Ave, Morgantown, WV 26508.