Your Guide to Protecting Your Health, Rights, and Future
A car accident can turn your world upside down in an instant. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious crash, the first 24 hours are crucial. The steps you take—or don’t take—can have a lasting impact on your physical recovery, financial stability, and legal options.
At Inkelaar Law, we’ve helped countless accident victims navigate the chaotic aftermath of a collision. In this guide, we break down the essential actions to take immediately after a car accident to safeguard your well-being and protect your rights.
The moments after a crash can be disorienting. Your first priority is safety—for yourself, your passengers, and others on the road.
Here’s what to do:
Check for injuries – If you or anyone else is hurt, call 911 immediately.
Move to a safe area – If the vehicle is drivable and it’s safe, pull over. Otherwise, stay inside with your seatbelt on.
Alert other drivers – Turn on hazard lights and use flares or cones if you have them.
Even if the accident seems minor, call the police. A police report provides official documentation, which is essential for insurance claims and any potential legal case.
Request an ambulance for any injury, even if symptoms are mild or delayed (e.g., headaches or dizziness).
Speak calmly and stick to the facts—never admit fault at the scene.
The scene of the accident offers valuable information that may not be available later.
Take photos of:
Damage to all vehicles
License plates
Road conditions, signs, and skid marks
Any visible injuries
Also:
Exchange contact and insurance info with the other driver(s)
Get names and statements from any witnesses, if possible
This evidence can be vital in building a strong case if legal action becomes necessary.
Even if you feel okay, it’s important to get checked out. Injuries like concussions, whiplash, or internal bleeding may not show symptoms immediately.
Visit an ER or urgent care within hours of the accident
Request a full evaluation and detailed documentation of any injuries
Case Example: One of our clients walked away from a crash feeling fine—only to experience migraines days later. A doctor later diagnosed a concussion. Because they sought treatment quickly, we were able to build a stronger claim on their behalf.
Contact your insurance provider promptly—ideally within a few hours.
When you report the accident, be sure to provide:
The police report number
Photos and evidence collected
Any medical records you’ve obtained
Avoid speculating about fault or discussing potential causes. Let the facts speak for themselves.
Even well-meaning people can make errors after an accident that may hurt their case. Avoid these pitfalls:
Apologizing or admitting fault
Delaying medical care
Posting about the accident on social media
Failing to gather documentation or witness statements
Any of these could weaken your legal claim or credibility down the line.
Not every accident requires legal help—but many do. You should speak with a lawyer if:
You’ve been injured
Fault is being disputed
The other driver is uninsured or underinsured
You feel overwhelmed by insurance negotiations
An experienced car accident attorney in Lincoln can help you make sense of your options and protect your rights.
At Inkelaar Law, we do more than file paperwork. We investigate thoroughly, build strong claims, and negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
We help clients:
Calculate medical expenses and lost wages
Deal with complex insurance negotiations
File lawsuits, if necessary
Pursue justice in wrongful death or truck accident claims
For serious crashes, we dig deep—reviewing vehicle data, maintenance logs, and driver records to uncover the full picture.
Depending on your situation, here’s who you may need to contact:
Car collision lawyers for multi-vehicle crashes
Motorcycle accident attorneys if a bike is involved
Wrongful death attorneys for fatal accidents
Negligence lawyers to prove the other party’s liability
Serious injury lawyers for long-term medical cases
Looking for the best auto accident attorney in Lincoln? We’re here to help.
In Nebraska, you generally have four years to file a personal injury claim. But waiting can hurt your case.
The sooner you speak with a Lincoln personal injury attorney, the sooner you can:
Protect crucial evidence
File the necessary documents
Get the compensation you deserve
Q: Should I call the police even if the accident was minor?
A: Yes. A police report provides official documentation that may be critical when filing insurance claims or pursuing legal action. Even in minor accidents, details can become disputed later.
Q: What if I don’t feel hurt right away—do I still need to see a doctor?
A: Absolutely. Many injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, can take hours or even days to show symptoms. Prompt medical care not only protects your health but also documents injuries for any potential legal claims.
Q: Can I handle the insurance claim myself?
A: You can, but it’s risky—especially if you’re injured or the other party disputes liability. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. A lawyer can protect your rights and negotiate a fair settlement.
Q: What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
A: You may still be eligible for compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage. An attorney can help you navigate this process and explore all available options for recovery.
Q: How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Nebraska after a car accident?
A: In Nebraska, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is four years from the date of the accident. However, acting quickly gives your legal team more time to gather evidence and build your case.
Q: What will it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?
A: At Inkelaar Law, we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Q: Can I get help if I don’t speak English?
A: Yes. Inkelaar Law proudly offers bilingual support for both English and Spanish speakers to ensure clear communication and strong representation for everyone.
We know the days after a car wreck are filled with uncertainty. That’s why we’ve built our firm around providing compassionate, expert legal support when it matters most.
At Inkelaar Law, we offer:
Free consultations
Decades of experience in motor vehicle accident cases
Bilingual support for English and Spanish speakers
Aggressive, compassionate advocacy
Whether you’re dealing with minor injuries or a complex personal injury case, our team is ready to help.
The first 24 hours after a car accident are critical. By acting quickly—and reaching out to the right professionals—you can protect your health, your finances, and your future.
Let us help you move forward.
Contact Inkelaar Law today for a free, no-pressure consultation. Let our experienced auto accident lawyers in Lincoln fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational purposes only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation. For specific legal advice, please consult with an attorney who is qualified to handle your case.
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