After a car accident, you may need to take a number of important steps to protect your rights. Some of these steps begin at the scene of the accident. Seek medical attention as soon as possible after your accident. Many victims suffer serious injuries that do not show symptoms immediately. Even if you believe yourself uninjured, visit a doctor for evaluation as soon as possible. If you can, gather evidence at the scene of the accident. Photograph the vehicles, especially any damage to them, and the accident scene. Collect contact information for witnesses. All of this information can help prove who caused the accident and get you the compensation you deserve. Report the accident to the police and receive a police report. If you do not need to leave the scene of the accident to seek medical attention, wait for the police to arrive and issue a statement about the accident. Do everything your doctor requires throughout your recovery process. If you ignore doctors’ orders and make your injuries worse, it can decrease the compensation you can receive. Consult a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. Working with a lawyer can more effectively protect your rights throughout the legal process after your accident. Keep track of all of your records. Start a file immediately after the accident. Put all of your medical information, photos from the accident scene, and witness statements in that file. The more information you have, the better you can protect your rights after an accident. Avoid discussing the accident unnecessarily. Do not allow other people’s versions of events to color your perceptions or make accusations against anyone involved in the accident. Issue a statement to the police at the accident scene if requested, then wait to discuss the accident until you can talk to your lawyer.