Steps After An Accident
For more than four decades, attorney John A. Caputo has been standing up for the rights of injury victims in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. Accidents do happen, but when they are the result of negligence, you deserve compensation. If you have suffered a serious injury, do not hesitate to contact our firm today.
Following are the steps you should take if you are in an accident:
- Contact emergency services: You must seek medical attention immediately. A doctor can prevent minor injuries from becoming worse. Furthermore, having the full extent of your injuries diagnosed is beneficial to your legal case.
- Contact an experienced lawyer: Second to seeing a doctor, contacting an attorney is the most important move you can make after sustaining an injury. Our law firm’s goals are to look out for your best interests, guide you through the legal process and answer any questions you have along the way.
- Follow the orders of your doctor: After leaving the care of your doctor, you must follow his or her orders regarding your recovery. If you do not heed the advice of your physician, your condition may worsen and you may damage your legal case.
As a personal injury law firm, we can assist you after any type of accident, including medical malpractice, auto accidents and construction accidents. It is important to understand that when you hire a lawyer you gain an ally who will stand by your side, be your voice and fight for you.
Obtaining And Understanding The Police Report After Your Pittsburgh Accident
A police report is one of the most important documents after a traffic collision in Pittsburgh. It provides an objective record of what happened, who was involved and any initial findings regarding fault.
This report is commonly used by insurance companies, attorneys and courts when determining responsibility and compensation. Having a clear understanding of how to obtain and interpret this report can support your claim and help protect your rights.
Individuals who work with a Pittsburgh car accident lawyer find this part of the process easier and more effective. There are several ways to request a police report after an accident. You need the accident date, location and the names of those involved.
- You can request the report through the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Records Division, either in person or by mail.
- Online requests can also be made through the Pennsylvania Crash Reporting System.
- Insurance companies may be able to request the report on your behalf, though this may take longer.
It is helpful to keep your case number, if provided at the scene, as this speeds up the request. Obtaining the report as soon as possible allows you to review details while the incident is still fresh in your mind. Police reports are written in a structured format. Key sections may include:
- Basic information: Names, addresses, license numbers and vehicle details for all parties.
- Narratives and diagrams: A description of how the officer believes the accident occurred, along with a visual diagram.
- Witness statements: Information from individuals who saw the collision take place.
- Officer observations: Notes on weather, road conditions, vehicle damage and injuries.
Each section provides insight into how the accident unfolded and what factors contributed to the collision. Insurance companies review the police report closely when making decisions. An attorney can analyze the report to identify errors, locate helpful details and connect the findings to your claim.
A Pittsburgh car accident lawyer can use the report to strengthen your case, support negotiations and advocate for fair compensation. Working with a legal team helps ensure your rights and interests remain protected.
Take The Next Step Toward Securing Compensation
Do not wait too long to contact any attorney after an accident. Contact us online or call 412-593-5973 for a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your situation. We take personal injury cases on contingency, meaning you will never pay a fee unless we help you recover compensation.