Getting injured in a car accident can mean lots of pain and financial struggle. Even a small fender bender can lead to whiplash or other serious injuries that may require X-rays, repeated doctor visits, and other expensive medical care. Don't expect the car insurance companies to automatically cover all your costs, especially if you are not at fault. You need to make sure you act quickly so you can get the money and care you need to recover from your accident. Here are 3 things you should always do when you get hurt in a car accident.

Get a lawyer

The first thing you should do when you get in a car accident is call a lawyer. You want to have this done before the insurance companies start trying to call you to get information about your accident. You may not know how to explain your car accident in a way that portrays you in the best light as a victim, and anything you give a car insurance company for their records can affect the settlement you get later. A lawyer, such as those at Hardee and Hardee LLP, can handle your case for you and help you answer questions and negotiate with car insurance companies so you have a better chance of getting the money you need.

Keep track of all monies spent

You will need to see a doctor right away when you get into a car accident, which means you may initially be paying for your visits and care out of your own pocket. You don't have time to sacrifice your health waiting for your insurance to cover your doctor bills. Since you will be paying for most of your doctor visits yourself until you can settle your insurance claim, keep track of all the money you spend getting medical care. This includes leaving work to get to your appointments, the gas you spend to travel, and even over-the-counter medication to help manage your pain. Your lawyer can advice you of any other receipts you should keep track of.

Don't settle

Your car insurance company will want to settle on a monetary amount as soon as possible so they can close your case and avoid recurring medical fees related to your care. No matter how tempting a settlement offer may be, refuse to settle on your insurance claim until you get a clean bill of health from your doctor. Even a whiplash injury can turn into a painful condition later in life, so you want to make sure you have the funds you need to cover ongoing medical care. Your lawyer will negotiate your settlement amount with the car insurance companies involved in the case to help you get the money you will need now and in the future.

Your car accident lawyer will help you in settling your case when you get hurt in a car accident. Secure an experienced lawyer as soon as you can, so you can make all the right moves to help protect yourself after you've been hurt in a car wreck.