In this video, personal injury attorney Craig Ortwerth provides insight into the steps you should take after a car accident.
From the video:
Hi, I’m Craig Ortwerth from Ortwerth Law.
I’d like to talk to you a little today about what to do after a car accident.
The first thing, when the vehicles come to rest, is to make sure you’re okay.
Make sure everybody else in your car is okay.
If you can get out of the car safely do so but if you can’t because you are on a Highway or other busy road, pull the car over, get off the next exit, or turn around a corner, and make sure that you’re safe to get out of the car.
Next, check on everybody else in the car and check on the other drivers. After you are safe and have checked on everybody else, call the police.
A lot of times, people will say you don’t need to call the police after every accident. I disagree a for a couple of reasons.
Number one: it helps memorialize everybody’s contact information. You want to make sure your information, the other driver’s information and any witnesses have their information collected while it is fresh in their minds.
It also helps the police kind of get a story when they speak to everybody, and it really get helps us get to the bottom of how the accident happened.
After that, as you leave the scene, it is important to once again make sure you’re okay. If you need to go to the emergency room or an Urgent Care do so. If you want to wait a couple days, maybe make an appointment to see your primary care physician, and they can refer you to whatever treatment that you and the doctor may see fit.
Related: What is the average car accident settlement compensation in Missouri
Physical Therapy, chiropractor, whatever.
Then the other part of the claim is about your vehicle. This is one of the main reasons I always suggest speaking with a car accident lawyer after an accident.
Whether it’s myself or another attorney, I recommend you get one because when you’re dealing with the two portions of the claim.
Your property damage claim is one and the injuries is the other.
For the property damage, the attorney can help answer your questions make sure your vehicle is repaired correctly and that you receive a rental vehicle and other things like that.
The second and frankly the more important part is your injury claim.
Your injury attorney can answer your questions and make sure that you understand the process and that you feel comfortable throughout a long process.
Sometimes, injury claims can be you know six months to over two years. A lot of that will depend on the type of injury you had and the type of treatment, whether you need surgery or therapies.
An attorney is important because you’re going to have questions, and you want to feel comfortable.
You will want to know what is going on and that’s what an attorney can do for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us for a free consultation.
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The Ortwerth Law Firm came to my rescue in my time of need. I would not have known how to proceed without their expert guidance. They were kind, caring, professional, and always available. I was fortunate to be able to work with them. Thank you.
My experience with Ortwerth Law was seamless. In my case, Craig had to take on a giant company, and handled everything professionally all the way to satisfactory closure. Craig was engaging, and faithful to keep me informed along the way. There is no one else I'd rather recommend.
I was in a car accident that was not my fault. Craig was absolutely amazing in handling my situation. He made the process painless and kept me in the loop for everything that was happening. I recommend Craig whole heartedly!!!!!
If you need legal representation, Ortwerth LLC is who I recommend. Communication, compassion and professionalism...
5 Stars Outstanding! I was always contacted and informed regarding my case. I did not have to go out of my way for anything. The process was very easy for me. Thank you
Craig was great and did a fantastic job for me. He is very professional and knew how to do his job. Craig is a very friendly, compassionate and understanding person. He answered all my questions and called to see how I was doing. I would recommend Craig to everyone. In my book he is an outstanding attorney.
Having Craig work on my case from beginning to end was the best decision I'd ever made! My case went on for 3 1/2 years and during that time i never had to worry about "bothering him or his staff with questions, or their patience in explaining what was going on or what I needed to do. They kept me and everyone involved informed and things went along smoothly! I hope to never have a case like this again, but if I do, there is absolutely NO doubt in my mind as to where I'd go and who I'd have to handle my case!! I highly recommend anyone to at least sit down for a consult. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!! Great Job Craig (& Marcie!!)
Craig was AWESOME to work with!! If I had a question he had no problem taking my call or returning a call if he was busy. I literally did nothing except sign papers. He did everything for me and made the process of my workmans composition settlement stress free!!! Give Craig a call, I believe he will make you a very happy client like me!!
Brian McChesney is the BEST divorce lawyer I have ever experienced or come across. He goes out of his way to help, and has the best suggestive advice. I appreciate his integrity, valor, and honesty. I cant even begin to express my gratitude and thankfulness! Wonderful guy!-Laura
I grew up playing sports with Craig since grade school. Dedication, determination, and commitment lead to his success as an athlete and now leads him to be successful in law. When I was in a accident several years ago I called to ask for his help. He took care of all the legal tasks while I concentrated on physical therapy. I have recommended several of my friends and family to Craig and he has given them the same commitment and assistance. I endorse Craig and his firm for anyone needing legal service.
I’m so grateful that Craig Ortwerth and his office took on my car accident case. Craig was so easy to work with and he quickly replied back to any questions or concerns I had and explained every step to me. I felt such relief knowing I was in good hands and I didn’t have to worry about dealing with the insurance company so I could focus on healing from my accident.
Brian is an outstanding attorney! I had a pretty complicated divorce and it was not an easy time for me. Brian was thoughtful and empathetic to my situation. He wasn’t some cold attorney sitting across from me nodding his head. He was very responsive to any and all concerns I had, and never made me feel like a bother. He knows his profession and does it well. His prices are more than fair.
As the Office Manager at Healthcare Complete, I would highly recommend the legal services from Brian McChesney and Craig Ortwerth. We have routinely referred our personal injury patients in need of legal advice/representation to their firm, and our patients have ALWAYS been well represented and satisfied. On a personal level, I have been represented by their firm for a personal injury case and have been equally satisfied. I have referred family and friends to the firm for similar situations. Our office, Doctor and Staff hold the firm in high regard. Thanks for all you've done for us through the years!
This was the first time I have ever needed a lawyer. And Craig Ortwerth was refered by a friend he made this process easier than I could have ever imagined. All I had to do was sign a few papers and everything else he took care of. I'm so happy with the outcome and working with Craig was great.
Hands down this is the best firm in St.Louis! I have had the BEST experience at McChesney & Orthworth. I have worked with Brian who from day one of me walking into the office has provided the most humble counsel.Very professional. When stepping in this office I felt like they truly wanted to help me get the best care. I can't say enough about his firm. Truly amazing!! I would recommend this firm to others in a heartbeat! To all of you at McChesney & Orthworth law group, a sincere thank you!! Many Thanks! Brooke Hinkle
I had Craig ortwerth represent me for a workmans Comp case and I will say he did an amazing job was very easy to keep in contact with and he handled everything in the best way possible I am extremely happy with the settlement he got me I fully endorse his law firm nothing remotely negative to say
I have worked with Craig Ortwerth on a few different occasions. Each time I was very pleased with the out come. Everyone from the staff to the lawyers are nice, respectful and give excellent customer service.
Brain McChesney has represented and guided us through several legal matters over the past 15 - 20 years. We have found him to be knowledgeable, responsive, aggressive, reasonable, and trustworthy. We would not turn to anyone else in the future. I highly recommend him.
Brian McChesney saved my life and the lives of my four children. Exceptional person, exceptional attorney.
Brian works like it is own family and Craig never let me down
