BELLEVILLE, IL – Hipskind & McAninch, LLC, a personal injury law firm serving Belleville and the Metro East region, has released a public guide detailing critical steps for drivers to take after a motor vehicle collision. The guide emphasizes actions that can preserve evidence and support potential legal claims, drawing on the firm's extensive experience in handling personal injury cases.
John Hipskind, co-founder of the firm, highlighted the importance of the guide. 'An accident can disrupt your life in an instant. While many people are understandably focused on their recovery, the steps they take at the scene and in the days that follow can affect their ability to pursue compensation. We hope this guide helps people make informed decisions during a difficult time,' Hipskind said.
The firm has recovered more than $50 million on behalf of clients, including a $20 million recovery involving a fatal rear-end collision and a $2 million settlement from a head-on crash. The guide outlines four key areas: prioritizing safety and seeking medical attention, reporting the accident, documenting the scene, and consulting legal guidance before speaking with insurance companies.
According to the guide, drivers should first check for injuries and call emergency services if needed. Even if injuries are not immediately apparent, conditions such as whiplash and internal injuries may develop later. Contacting law enforcement is also recommended to obtain an official accident report. Drivers should provide factual information but avoid speculating about fault or the cause of the collision.
Documentation is another crucial step. The guide advises exchanging contact, driver's license, and insurance information with all involved parties. If safe, drivers should photograph vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and other relevant details. Obtaining contact information from witnesses is also suggested.
Before speaking with insurance companies, the guide recommends seeking legal guidance. Insurance representatives may request recorded statements or other documentation soon after an accident. Understanding legal rights before providing detailed statements or signing documents can be beneficial.
The guide reflects the firm's approach to educating the public about the legal process following serious accidents. Founding partners John Hipskind and Brady McAninch previously represented corporate defendants, an experience that informs their work on behalf of individuals pursuing personal injury claims.
Hipskind & McAninch represents clients in matters involving car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, and premises liability. The firm also assists with navigating insurance claims, legal deadlines, and the process of seeking compensation after an injury. The firm has been recognized by Super Lawyers® Rising Stars and The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40.
