In case of emergency, call 911 immediately

Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Support & Resources

Get the guidance you need after an auto accident. Our experts help you navigate insurance claims, medical documentation, and legal processes with confidence.

Get Immediate Assistance
6M+
Annual MVA Cases in US
40%
Involve Injuries
3-5X
Higher Settlement with Help

After an Accident: Critical Steps

Follow these essential steps to protect your rights and ensure proper documentation

1

Report the Accident

Immediately call emergency services if there are injuries. Contact local law enforcement to file an official accident report, which is crucial for insurance and legal purposes.

2

Document Everything

Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, license plates, and the accident scene. Collect witness information and note weather/road conditions.

3

Seek Medical Attention

Even without visible injuries, get evaluated by a healthcare professional. Some MVA-related injuries manifest hours or days after the incident.

4

Notify Insurance

Contact your insurance provider immediately. Provide only factual information - avoid admitting fault or giving recorded statements without legal advice.

5

Legal Consultation

Consult with an attorney specializing in motor vehicle accidents to understand your rights, especially if there are injuries or disputed liability.

6

Organize Documentation

Maintain a complete file including medical records, repair estimates, correspondence with insurance companies, and documentation of lost wages.

Common MVA Injuries

Understanding potential injuries helps ensure proper medical attention and documentation

Whiplash Injury

Whiplash

Common Symptoms:

  • Neck pain and stiffness
  • Headaches at the base of the skull
  • Dizziness or blurred vision
  • Fatigue and difficulty concentrating

Whiplash symptoms may appear days after the accident. Proper diagnosis through physical examination and imaging is crucial for treatment and insurance claims.

Back Injury

Back Injuries

Common Symptoms:

  • Localized or radiating pain
  • Muscle spasms
  • Limited range of motion
  • Tingling or numbness in extremities

Back injuries range from muscle strains to herniated discs. MRI or CT scans may be needed to assess damage severity for proper treatment planning.

Concussion

Concussions

Common Symptoms:

  • Headache or pressure in head
  • Confusion or feeling "foggy"
  • Dizziness or nausea
  • Sensitivity to light or noise

Even mild concussions require medical evaluation. Cognitive rest and gradual return to activities are typically recommended under medical supervision.

Fractures

Fractures

Common Symptoms:

  • Intense pain at injury site
  • Visible deformity or swelling
  • Inability to bear weight or use limb
  • Bruising around injured area

Common MVA fractures include ribs, arms, legs, and facial bones. Immediate immobilization and X-rays are necessary for proper treatment.

Internal Injuries

Internal Injuries

Common Symptoms:

  • Abdominal pain or swelling
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Deep purple bruising
  • Difficulty breathing

Internal bleeding or organ damage can be life-threatening. Immediate medical attention is critical, even if symptoms seem mild initially.

Psychological Trauma

Psychological Trauma

Common Symptoms:

  • Anxiety or panic attacks
  • Flashbacks or nightmares
  • Avoidance of driving or vehicles
  • Mood swings or depression

PTSD and other psychological effects are valid medical conditions requiring professional treatment and should be included in insurance claims.

Insurance Claim Tips

Navigating the insurance process after an MVA

Understand Your Coverage

Review your policy to understand what's covered (liability, collision, comprehensive, medical payments, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage). Know your deductibles and limits before filing a claim.

Be Cautious With Statements

When speaking with insurance adjusters, stick to facts without speculation. Avoid admitting fault or giving recorded statements before consulting with an attorney.

Document All Communications

Keep records of all conversations with insurance representatives, including names, dates, times, and summaries of what was discussed.

Don't Accept the First Offer

Initial settlement offers are often lower than what you may be entitled to, especially for pain and suffering or long-term injuries.

Understand the Statute of Limitations

Each state has different time limits for filing claims or lawsuits related to MVAs. Missing these deadlines can forfeit your right to compensation.

Client Testimonials

Hear from people we've helped through their MVA journey

The legal team helped me understand my rights when the other driver's insurance company tried to lowball me. Thanks to their expertise, I received fair compensation for my injuries.

- Michael T., Houston

I didn't realize how serious my whiplash injury was until weeks after the accident. The medical documentation team made sure all my symptoms were properly recorded for my claim.

- Jennifer L., Miami

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about motor vehicle accidents

What should I do immediately after an accident?

First, check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Move to a safe location if possible. Exchange information with the other driver(s) but avoid discussing fault. Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and any visible injuries. Contact your insurance company to report the accident.

How long do I have to file an insurance claim?

This varies by state and insurance provider, but generally you should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible - ideally within 24 hours. The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit ranges from 1-6 years depending on your state.

What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?

If you have uninsured motorist coverage (UM), your own insurance should cover your damages. If not, you may need to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver. About 1 in 8 drivers are uninsured, which is why UM coverage is highly recommended.

Should I see a doctor even if I feel fine?

Yes! Many accident-related injuries like whiplash or concussions have delayed symptoms. A medical evaluation creates documentation linking any injuries to the accident, which is crucial for insurance claims. Some injuries may worsen without proper treatment.

How is fault determined in an accident?

Fault is determined by investigating police reports, witness statements, physical evidence, traffic laws, and sometimes accident reconstruction experts. States follow either "fault" or "no-fault" systems, which affect how claims are processed.