What to Do After a Car Accident

By Janae Cepeda-Johnson

Traumatic Brain Injury

Getting into a car accident is one of those things you never think will happen to you – until it does. And when it does, it’s a whirlwind of confusion, emotions, and questions. First and foremost, if you’ve been in an accident and suspect you’ve suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), it’s crucial to take the right steps to protect both your health and your legal rights.

Here are some of the key questions I had when I found myself in that situation—and why contacting a brain injury lawyer became one of the most important things I could do. 

What do I do right after the accident?
Your mind will race, but don’t let panic cloud your judgment. The first thing to do is ensure you’re safe. If you’re able, move to a safer spot. Then, check on others involved in the accident. Call the police immediately, even if it seems minor. Having an official report is vital for your case later. Take photos of the scene, exchange information with the other driver(s), and make sure to get contact details from any witnesses. 

How do I know if I’ve suffered a brain injury?
Concussions and TBIs don’t always show immediate symptoms. You might believe you feel fine, but symptoms can be masked in a concussion or can creep in over time. Dizziness, headaches, nausea, memory problems, or difficulty concentrating are all potential signs of a TBI. If any of these symptoms occur, don’t wait—get checked by a doctor immediately. Even if you’re not sure, better safe than sorry—ALWAYS SEE A DOCTOR FIRST and get a second opinion if things don’t feel right.  

Why should I contact a brain injury lawyer?
A car accident with a TBI isn’t just a headache—it’s something that can impact your life for years to come. Doctors, treatments, missed work, and the mental health toll can leave you feeling drained, physically and financially. This is where a brain injury lawyer comes in. They specialize in handling cases like yours, helping you get the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care if necessary.
Not only do they know the ins and outs of the legal system, but they can also work with medical professionals to accurately assess the true cost of your injury. With a lawyer on your side, you’re not navigating this complicated process alone. They’ll fight for your rights while you focus on healing. You wouldn’t hire an electrician to fix your clogged pipes so why would you go to just any lawyer? You need one that specializes in traumatic brain injury (TBI) like we do at Brain Injury Law of Seattle.  

What if the insurance company doesn’t want to pay?
It happens more often than you’d think. Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to pay out as little as possible to keep their shareholders happy. A brain injury lawyer will help you deal with them effectively. They can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you don’t get lowballed or left behind when it comes to fair compensation. Don’t ever accept their first offer. Contact our office and know your worth! 

What if I don’t feel like I need a lawyer?
I get it. It’s easy to think you can handle things on your own, especially if the injury feels minor at first. But TBIs can be sneaky. What starts as a headache could turn into chronic pain or cognitive issues later on. A lawyer will help safeguard your future by ensuring you get proper treatment and that all costs, including future medical care, are covered.
Accidents happen, but with the right steps, you can protect yourself now and in the future. If you’ve been in a car accident and suspect a TBI, don’t hesitate—contact a brain injury lawyer as soon as possible. It’s not just about compensation—it’s about your well-being, too 

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