Crary, Clark & Domanico can guide you through the claims process after you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Spokane. The aftermath of a car accident is extremely scary, yet it’s also important for how your claim plays out. This includes what you should–and shouldn’t–say to police, insurance, and others involved. Our team can make sure your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Should I Say at the Scene of My Spokane Car Accident?
After your car accident, the things you do are going to be very important to how your potential claim plays out. While your health and safety is always the top priority, this includes what you say. In general, you need to be very careful. As the saying goes, anything you say can be used against you. So, when you talk to police or others, here’s what you should say:
- Check for injuries – One of the first things you should do is ask if everyone is okay. Then, call 911 for an ambulance and police response. They’ll help out at the scene.
- Exchange information – Give the other driver or others your insurance and contact information. Make sure you get their information as well. If they won’t cooperate, just go back to your car or a safe spot and wait for the police.
- Basic facts – When police arrive, answer their questions honestly but briefly. Stick to the facts: where the accident happened, which direction you were driving, and what you saw.
Remember, what you don’t say is equally as important. So, here’s a few things you shouldn’t say:
- Admitting fault – Even saying something like “I didn’t see you” or “I’m sorry” can be taken as admitting blame. There may be factors you’re not aware of yet–let the investigation determine who’s at fault.
- Speculation – If you’re not sure what happened, it’s okay to say that. Don’t guess or try to fill in the blanks.
- Arguing – Don’t argue with the other driver. Keep things calm and civil. Let the police handle disputes and collect the facts.
What you say at the scene can either help move your claim forward—or cause delays if something you say raises red flags for the insurance company. When in doubt, keep things calm and simple. This protects your claim and can even make it stronger.
What Else Can You Do to Protect Your Car Accident Claim?
Even with limiting your statements and comments at the scene of your accident, you still have other things to do to protect your claim. Most of the time, this means doing the following:
- Call 911 – Check yourself and others for injuries, then call 911. EMTs can treat injuries on the spot, and it’s a good idea to follow up with a hospital visit to document any issues. Ask the dispatcher to send police too–they’ll secure the scene and help you get information.
- Gather evidence – If it’s safe to do so, use your phone to take photos or videos of the vehicles, damage, road conditions, traffic signs, injuries, and anything else that seems important. These visuals can be powerful evidence later.
- Exchange information – Swap names, contact details, and insurance info with all drivers involved. If any of the vehicles are rentals, get details on the rental company too. And don’t forget to talk to witnesses–get their names and contact info while they’re still on the scene.
- Note what happened – As soon as you can, take a few minutes to write down exactly what you remember–how the crash happened, where you were, what you saw, and anything the other driver said or did. These details can fade quickly, so getting them down early helps keep your story consistent throughout the claims process.
Focusing on your health should always come first, but these steps can help protect your rights and make your claim stronger from the start. The more organized and detailed your case is, the harder it is for the insurance company to question it. Also, our team will be there to guide and support you.
How Can CCD Law Help You After a Car Accident in Spokane?
Driving through Spokane, accidents can happen in an instant—but not every accident requires a lawyer, especially if it’s a minor fender bender. That said, if you’re dealing with injuries, stress, or a difficult insurance process, having legal support can make a big difference.
At CCD Law, we’re here to make things easier for you. Our team focuses on giving you personal, one-on-one support to help you through every step of your recovery. Here’s how we can help you after a Spokane car accident:
- Explain your rights and walk you through your options so you’re not left in the dark
- Investigate the crash to find out what really happened and who’s responsible
- Help gather the evidence you’ll need to support your claim–photos, reports, medical records, and more
- Deal directly with insurance companies so you don’t have to worry about low offers or back-and-forth negotiations
- Guide you through the entire process, whether you’re filing a claim or need to take legal action
Our job is to take the pressure off so you can focus on getting better. If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Spokane, contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get better.
